Keeping Ahead of the Curve When Buying Property

To secure your dream home in today’s super fast property market you cannot just rely on having the funds ready. With several buyers often competing for the same property, you need a tailored strategy that helps float your offer to higher waters and secure those keys.

Start by Getting Your Money Right

Before you even start looking at properties, get pre-approved for a mortgage. This shows that you are a committed buyer and your funding is secured so having a Decision In Principle has its advantages. It is to your advantage already as compared to buyers who are still sorting out their finances. Speak to a mortgage broker who will be able to demonstrate how much you can afford, and even open up better deals for yourself.

Move Fast, But Smart

Sign up to as many estate agents and alerts so that you can be the first informed when a property comes on. Don’t wait to book viewings - occasionally within hours of a property being listed bookings are already being taken. Do your homework — find out about the area, recent sale prices and what might be wrong with it before taking a chance. For advice from Gloucester Estate Agents, visit TGRES, a leading firm of Gloucester Estate Agents. 

Make Your Offer Stand Out

Price isn’t everything. This can, of course, help when coupled with offering above asking price; but there are other things you might do to make your offer appealing as well. Be open and give the seller multiple possible completion dates. If you are a first time buyer, or not in the position of having to sell a property – then tell them that and emphasise this benefit… as you will not form part of a chain which may then subsequently collapse.

Make sure to also send a letter with your offer, saying what you like about the property and why it is perfect for living in. Be warned, this kind of personal touch can be really powerful — especially with sellers who have sentimental attachments to the home.

Build Strong Relationships

Build strong connections with local agents. They frequently learn about properties even before they are actually marketed and might give you notice of upcoming ones. Respond promptly, professionally and courteously — the easy clients are often those who get first dibs.

Be Prepared to Compromise

List down your must-haves vs nice-to-haves. In order to avoid such contention, you might consider loosening the restrictions around some of the features. The thing is, properties can often be made to work better for you through renovation but location cannot.

Act Decisively

Take action when you stumble upon the ideal property. Get your solicitor lined up, have the surveys booked in right away and be ready to exchange contracts swiftly. Then you are better placed to proceed with minimal hiccups.