Buying a first home is exciting, and a little overwhelming. A clear list of priorities makes every inspection easier, because you compare each property against the same yardstick instead of just the feeling you had walking in.
Start with the things you cannot change
Location, block size and the general condition of the structure are very hard to fix later. Décor, paint and most fittings are easy. Spend your attention on the first group.
- How long is the trip to work, school and the shops?
- Does the layout suit the way you actually live?
- Are there signs of damp, cracking or poor drainage?
Fall in love with the bones of a home, not the styling.
Set your budget before you fall for a house
Work out what you can comfortably repay, then add the one-off costs: stamp duty, inspections, moving and a small buffer for the first few months. Knowing the ceiling early keeps the search calm.
Bring a checklist to every viewing
Take photos, note the small details and ask about the neighbourhood. It is far easier to compare five homes from notes than from memory.
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