Q: Our agent has suggested that we get a building inspection before we list our home for sale. It seems like a waste of money to me – if a buyer wants one then can’t they just get it themselves? What’s your advice? James L. A: Personally, we think it is a sensible idea. It costs money but it could save you plenty, in fact it can be the difference between selling and not selling – especially at auction. Why? We recommend that all buyers…
Read More →Q: We are about to put our home of twenty years on the market and are considering buying an apartment in the city off the plans. The block we are looking at will be finished in another 18 months so then we can decide whether to move in for a while or rent it out. What are your thoughts in buying off the plans and what are the risks? Julie & Bryan K. A: Interestingly our partner company Loan Market has just published an article on this,…
Read More →Q: We’ve been doing the rounds of open homes recently. While some agents are really helpful, many are not. What are the most important questions we should ask when we find a property we are interested in? John & Becky L. A: The open home is the best time to qualify a property in or out of your search. Take the opportunity to ask the agent questions face-to- face rather than via email or phone. If it’s busy then either come back …
Read More →Last week we answered Diana’s question on why her home had not sold, and because we mentioned that it might be because she is using the wrong agent we thought we should tell you what is involved in a Sole Listing Agreement, and when and how you can cancel it. The real estate agent you choose to sell your house will ask you to sign an agency agreement. This is a legally binding contract so make sure you read and understand it before signing. …
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