Buying your first home can seem eye-wateringly expensive, especially when you consider all the extra costs such as legal fees and moving costs that you need to pay. Here are six tips to help you buy your first home for less.
Get a Good Property Agent
A good property agent will be as keen to get you moving as you are to go. They will not cause any unnecessary hold ups which could cost you more money in legal fees or other expenses. A great agent who prides themselves on customer service will be there to guide you through the whole process from start to finish. For a good example, check out broadhurstproperty.com.au.
Haggle
Don’t be afraid to negotiate the asking price with the seller. You are in a good buying position because you have nothing to sell so you are not in a chain that might cause complications. This is a great point in your favour so don’t be afraid to use it when discussing the price. A few thousand dollars could make a huge difference to the total cost of your mortgage.
Shop Around for the Best Mortgage Deal
The days of only being able to get a mortgage from your own bank have long gone and these days lenders compete with each other to offer the best prices and lend people money. The bigger the deposit you have, the better mortgages tend to be priced but there are still some great deals for first-time buyers and smaller deposit holders. Shop around to make sure you get the best deal.
Move Your Belongings Yourself
Paying a moving firm to move your belongings to your new home can be expensive but you can cut costs by organising the move yourself. Hire a van or ask a few friends who have cars to help you move and this could save you a small fortune. You may not have a lot of furniture to move as this will be your first home. If you order anything, have it delivered to your new abode a day or two after moving day. You might have to sit on the floor for the first evening in your new home but that is all part of the fun.
White Goods
Many people buy new white goods such as a fridge, washing machine or dryer when they move and don’t want the hassle of having to take their old ones with them. It is worth asking your sellers what their intentions are. If they would rather leave their white goods behind, this will save you money, even if you only use them for a few months until you can afford your own.
Furniture
Any new furniture you need does not have to cost you a lot. Look in the free ads in your local area and see what you can pick up for nothing. Items such as beds, sofas, and storage space are often listed. You will be amazed at how much you can get for free.
These are just six tips to help you buy your first home for less. See how much money you could save.
