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Are you ready to become a homeowner? A new, exciting chapter in life is about to begin, but you've probably never felt more stressed! Such reaction is normal, as you're about to step into the unknown waters. How can you minimise the anxiety while you're purchasing your first house?

Controlling thoughts and emotions isn't easy. However, you can research some essential tips for you to start looking for your new home. These are 5 things many people wish they knew before they purchased their first property.

1. Think about your long-term plans

While looking for a house, you’ll surely come across many different types of houses you’d want to consider. Even though it may seem like you’ve found a perfect place for you, you need to think about your long-term plans first! Where do you see yourself 5 or 10 years from now?

As the location plays a huge role when purchasing the property, think about the career development. Will you stay on the same job? Also, you need to think about the family! Are you planning on getting married, having kids? All of these factors are crucial when buying a home and deciding between a one-bedroom condo or a three-room house. 

2. Budget and additional cost

Besides your long-term plans, you need to think about your budget. You've surely come up with an idea of how much you want to spend on your first house. However, you need to consider the additional cost that may pop up along the way!

Are you planning on moving in straight away? That might not be a good idea. Most houses on the market have a hidden cost and require a dose of investment to modify it according to your desires. On top of that, if you’re planning on hiring professional movers, you’ll need to include that in your budget as well.

3. Look beyond the paint

Once you start looking for a house, you’ll probably find a lot of aesthetically appealing ones that look great from the outside. But don’t let the exterior fool you! Your dream house should have a lovely interior as well! But how can you know you’ve found the right house?

Little touch-ups such as repainting the walls or changing the layout of the furniture aren't expensive. However, completely renovating the bathroom and the kitchen can cost a fortune! So, when choosing a house, think about the larger elements that are difficult to change!

4. Contract is an essential

No matter how much you trust the person you're buying a house from, some sort of contract is essential according to the law. You’ll need to sign A LOT of papers. If you want everything to go according to the plan, you need to be careful while signing those contracts.

As buying a new house is a very stressful process, consider contacting professionals such as Northern Beaches lawyers that can make this process easier for you. Professional lawyers will thoroughly read the contracts and ensure you’re getting the best out of the purchase!

5. Thoroughly inspect the home

Before you sign the contract, thoroughly inspecting the home is crucial! You may wonder why is a home inspection necessary when buying a house. However, if you don’t want to spend more money than you’ve initially planned, you need to check out the house from the foundations to the roof.

Is there a hole in a roof? Are all electrical appliances in an operating state? These and many more questions need to be asked before you agree on the price of your first home.

Conclusion

These are only some, but most important things you need to know when buying your first house. Don’t expect to find a dream home right away. Explore the market and follow these tips for the best possible outcome for you and your budget!

Written by Patrick Adams

 

About the Author

Patrick Adams is a freelance writer and rock-blues fan. When he is not writing about home improvement, he loves to play chess, watch basketball, and play his guitar. More than anything, he loves to spend his time in his garage, repairing appliances and creating stuff from wood.

 

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