Four top lessons learnt by first-time buyers

Like most things in life, buying your first property is a learning curve and there are loads of lessons to be learnt along the way. Jawitz Properties makes a list of four of the top lessons learned by first-time buyers to help the property purchase process go as smoothly as possible for you.

Lesson 1: Remember the three most important words: location, location, location

One of the classic pieces of advice that will be offered by any property practitioner is that location is key to any home journey. The reasoning behind this is that over time, you can renovate your property to suit your needs and taste - but it is close to impossible to change things about the area you buy into. Visit the neighbourhood at various times and on various days to get a comprehensive picture of what the area is like. It's also worth doing some research into crime rates in the area, any businesses operating in the area and the general condition of other properties in the neighbourhood.

Lesson 2: Take multiple careful looks at the property and what it offers

Over and above looking at the broader location of your potential home, examine the specific property itself and what it offers. Is the garden big enough to keep your children and pets happy? Is the house well positioned in relation to your neighbours' properties? How many stairs are there, and are these likely to pose a challenge for any member of your family?

When you're driving around the neighbourhood, take note of whether the neighbours keep their properties clean, and get a feel of whether you'll feel safe going for a walk or a run from your new home.

Lesson 3: Consider getting an access bond

The vast majority of first-time buyers need a home loan - but what not everybody knows is that your home loan can be a source of funds for you when you need them. If you have paid money into your access bond over and above the minimum amounts due, then the funds can be available to you almost immediately in the event of a crisis or a rainy day. The interest rate on your home loan is likely to be far more favourable than one you would be offered on vehicle finance or a personal loan, so if it is handled correctly, an access bond can be an astute way to save.

Lesson 4: Enlist the help of a property practitioner you trust

As you browse property listings online, you'll soon see that there are many different property practitioners working in your area, and you may meet several of them as you work towards finding the right home for you. However, there's a lot to be said for choosing one property practitioner, telling them what you need and then trusting him or her to find you the right home. For starters, building a relationship with a property professional means getting to take advantage of their knowledge, not only of the area that you're interested in buying in, but also of prevailing market conditions. Your agent will also use their negotiation skills to get you the best possible opportunity in buying - and in the eyes of many buyers, it's tough to put a price tag on the peace of mind that comes from working with a property practitioner who you like and trust.

According to many buyers, choosing the right #RealPartner is the biggest way to ensure that buying your first home is a smooth process. There's a reason why buyers across South Africa have been trusting Jawitz Properties since 1969. Contact us today and let us walk with you on every step of the property buying journey.