| Home | Forms | Publications | Requests | Fees and Payments | Contact Us
What type of house will suit me?
Before you look for a house you should have a price range and a list of features in mind.
You need to consider issues such as current and future needs, for example more children and the needs of growing children, or children about to leave home.
It is also wise to consider lifestyle issues. A busy working couple, for example, might choose an established low maintenance garden. A young family might prefer a safe and large outdoor area for children.
You should decide how important is it to be close to facilities such as schools, medical services, transport or shopping.
If you have decided on specific areas or suburbs you should visit the area at different times to assess things such as noise levels and traffic flow and general neighbourhood atmosphere.
You could check with the local council to see how the area you are thinking of living in is zoned. For example, if the area is zones 'light industrial' this will allow commercial uses that may affect property values as well as the general amenity of the area.
How can I find a house?
Local newspapers regularly publish real estate guides, and real estate agents usually have websites which advertise properties that are listed with those agencies.
If you are actively looking for a property and have decided your price range, an agent will allow you to lodge your property needs with them. The agent can then look through current and future listings for you. This service could attract a fee so check their terms especially if asked to sign any document.
However most agents will see this as part of selling properties and will not charge the buyer.
Many people also sell their property privately, so it pays to drive around areas you wish to buy in and take note of any sale signs.
