Checklist for buying

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 9, Issue 404, 17 September 1991, Page 12

Checklist for buying

Choosing the next home for you and your family can be a difficult task yet it can be made simple if you think things through before you start says President of the Real Estate Institute, Brian MacPherson. "Moving into a new home can have a big impact on the happiness of you and your family and it pays to remember the basic advice you followed when you bought your first home. It is also well worth taking the time to fully identify your require-

ments and priorities," said Mr MacPherson. With over 20 year's experience in real estate, Mr MacPherson knows it is common for people to trade up or trade down to inappropriate homes. "Once people have made the decision that their home is not suitable they can sometimes make a hasty decision as they want to get the family settled or want to snatch up the first luxury home they see. "The decision to purchase your next home should not be made on the basis that you like the smart furniture or colour of the rooms. It is important to have your own needs identified so you are not swayed by first impressions or minor features." It will save a lot of time and frustration if you write down your priorities and needs. For example if you are wanting to trade up to accommodate a growing family (or a new one) it is best to list the requirements such as a three or four bedroom home, preferably with laundry, family room and off street parking. A lawn area, large enough for family recreation may also be another important consideration. On the other hand if you are wanting to trade

down as your family has shrunk or your spouse has passed away you should make a list of your preferences such as living in a particular suburb or with a small garden. Mr MacPherson says it is also important to note what you do not like, such as high rise apartments or living on a main road. "Your real estate agent will then know what homes are likely to interest you most and be able to show appropriate listings without wasting either your time or the vendor's." If often pays to also list the features you did not like in your existing home and make sure you do not subconsciously include them again in your new one.