Tips For First Time Buyers Number 3

04 Dec 2015

First time buyers do not always demonstrate to estate agents the same level of urgency as someone who is selling. If you are eager to view, you'll be top of the list when something new comes on the market.

Here are some other tips for first time buyers to conclude our series on this topic:

• Be prepared to view at short notice. This not only demonstrates your seriousness, but also means that you will be among the first to see properties which have just come on the market – which are often the best! Good properties never hang around long!
• Make good use of your lunch hour or view properties on the way to or from work.
• Don't be afraid to visit with tradesmen to find out if your plans for a property are realistic before you commit to buying. 
• If you're tempted to buy a run-down property to renovate, check how long it's been on the market. If no-one else thought it was viable you might want to think twice.
• New carpets, bathrooms and kitchens can either suggest that the property has been recently renovated or could be a sign of a quick tart up job! Take your time and look beyond the superficial.
• A vendor who offers to show you a record of the works done on the property, ideally with their cost, is generally likely to be thorough and transparent in their dealings.
• If you do discover a defect, is it really going to be such a problem to your enjoyment of the property? Some compromise is inevitable and most people find they quickly learn to live with, or can easily remedy, all but the most serious of faults.
• If you see something you like – go for it before somebody else does!