How to buy a home in a tight market

Buying a home in any market can feel daunting, however, it can become even more nerve-wracking when the market is tight and you need to make decisions quicker than you would have if it wasn’t. So how do you approach a tight market as a buyer? What do you need to do to secure your dream home?

Below we share insider tips and expert strategies to help you find a home that not only meets your lifestyle needs but also your wallet!

Financial fitness when buying a home

The very first step you need to take when getting ready to buy a home is ensuring that you are financially ready for the commitment - even more so in a tight market.

Start by doing a lifestyle audit and setting up a budget - cut where you need to and increase your savings to ensure you have a good credit score, and would need a smaller loan to be able to purchase your home. By doing this you are increasing your chances of being approved for a home loan as banks will see you as less of a risk, and when the time comes to apply for a home loan you won’t have to worry about being rejected - perfect for a tight market.

Get pre-qualified

Once you have yourself in the position to start the home-buying process you need to get pre-qualified. Not only will this show sellers that you are a serious buyer, increasing your chances of having your offer to purchase accepted, but it will also give you a clearer picture of what kind of home loan you might be able to qualify for. 

Understanding what you might qualify for, allows you to only focus on properties you will be able to afford. You are not wasting your time with properties that are out of your budget. When there are only a few properties available, then this will definitely help you put your focus in the right places.

Here is how you can get a better interest rate on your home loan

Additionally, research the property market and trends to understand the current pricing and demand in your desired location.

Get yourself an agent

Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent in a tight market is essential for success - from helping you streamline the masses of paperwork that you will need to complete, to finding the right property on time. Agents have connections with communities and might have the perfect property for you before it even hits the market! 

There are several reasons why using a real estate agent offers advantages:

• Market knowledge: Real estate agents have in-depth knowledge of the local property market, including pricing trends, property values, and neighborhoods. They can provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions.

• Access to listings: Agents have access to a wide range of property listings, including those that may not be publicly available. This gives you more options to choose from and increases your chances of finding the right property.

• Negotiation skills: Experienced agents are skilled negotiators who can help you get the best deal possible. They can negotiate on your behalf to secure a favourable price and terms with the seller.

• Legal expertise: Real estate transactions involve complex legal processes and paperwork. Agents can guide you through these processes, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and protecting your interests.

• Time and convenience: Searching for a property can be time-consuming and overwhelming. An agent can save you time by identifying suitable properties, scheduling viewings, and handling negotiations and paperwork on your behalf.

• Professional network: Agents have a network of professionals, such as conveyancers, home inspectors, and bond originators, who can assist you throughout the buying process. This can streamline the process and ensure a smooth transaction.

• Guidance and support: Buying a home is a significant financial and emotional investment. An agent can provide guidance and support, answering your questions and addressing any

If you are a seller considering going at it on your own, make sure you understand the dangers of selling your property privately.

Find a real estate agent

Understanding your wants and needs

Define what you want in your home by understanding the difference between what you want (nice to have) and what you need. 

A fireplace might be a nice addition, but it is not a necessity while a home close to good schools is a need. Take into consideration your lifestyle and future plans - there is no use in buying a studio apartment if you are planning on starting a family in the next five years.

Consider factors such as location, size, amenities, and future growth potential. Setting realistic expectations will help you narrow down your options and find a property that meets your criteria.

Here are 6 tips for finding your dream home in a competitive market

How to avoid buyer's remorse

Research your areas

While you may have specific suburbs in mind, financial constraints might redirect your house-hunting efforts. To ensure you still get what you want within your budget do thorough research in more affordable areas. Explore traffic routes during rush hours, assess local amenities, and consider proximity to friends, family, schools, and workplaces. A well-informed decision ensures that compromises are manageable and align with your long-term goals.

Consider your lifestyle

Your new home should complement your lifestyle. If you have pets, opt for pet-friendly spaces, while frequent travelers might prefer low-maintenance properties. Take your future needs into consideration as well, such as potential family expansion or job changes, to ensure the chosen property remains suitable in the long run.

This is why understanding your wants and needs are important before you buy a home.

Consult the experts

Before making an offer, enlist the expertise of builders, electricians, and plumbers to inspect the property. This diligence ensures confidence in the structure's integrity and services. Uncovering issues doesn't necessarily mean walking away but empowers you to negotiate effectively, after all "Knowledge is power."