Houses for Sale

5 things to consider when looking at houses for sale

Whether it is your first time buying a property or whether you are a seasoned buyer who is upgrading to something more suited to your current position in life, buying a property is always an exciting event. It could also potentially be a stressful event, with many variables and possible pitfalls to consider. But, it doesn’t have to be. Simply approach the process with clarity, practicality, and common sense to take the pressure off yourself, and keep the following handy tips in mind when looking at houses for sale:

Make a list

It is easy to get carried away when looking at houses for sale. There are so many options – each with a different charm and set of appealing factors. You might like the entertainment area of one property, but love the way the light spills into another. Or, perhaps another is close to your work, and that other beautiful house had the most spectacular garden…

Start by making a list of all the things you want in a property before you start looking at houses for sale. Then divide that list into absolute must-haves, and nice-to-haves. Use this list to refer back to as you view properties, to help you prioritise the things that are most important to you.

Do you really need all that space?

Buyers are often drawn to properties that offer more space than what they currently have at their own property. This is important when looking at houses for sale, as you have to take things like growing families into consideration. But, also remember that more space means more work, more maintenance, and possibly more expensive utility bills. Do you have the budget, time, and energy for this?

Look further than the boundaries of the property

Don’t be blinded by the charm of suitable and luxurious properties that you are viewing. Remember the importance of the location of these houses for sale. Is the neighbourhood safe? Are the surrounding properties maintained as well as the one you are looking at? Do you have easy access to schools, shops, public transport, or your place of work?

Furthermore, check what is adjacent to your property. Is it another house? A field? How does this affect security or factors such as gardening? Is the surrounding area well-drained or could there be potential problems with dampness during the rainy season?

Is the property subject to a homeowner’s association?

This can either be a blessing or a curse, depending on your preferences and the professionalism of the homeowner’s association in question. Maybe you like the idea of someone monitoring the neighbourhood and instilling some sort of visual continuity. Or, maybe you have some great ideas on how you want to change the new property. Either way, find out whether there is a homeowner’s association in charge of the area, what the related charges and responsibilities are, and how much say they have over the houses for sale in the area.

Use a trusted realtor

Buying property is no small change. By using a trusted and established realtor, you know that all the contracts and paperwork will be in order and that your interests are looked after.

Fine & Country South Africa is an award-winning real estate agency specialising in luxury houses for sale. Whether you are in the market for a beach house, a city-centre penthouse apartment, a house on a golf estate, or a premium commercial building, our professional and experienced team can help you find the ideal property for you. Contact us today to discover your perfect home.