Article by Connor Tait
5 minute read
Getting ready to buy? Here’s what you need to know before making an offer
There’s nothing quite like the buzz of house hunting — scrolling through listings, picturing your next chapter, and visiting open homes. But while that part of the journey is exciting, real success in buying a home comes from the preparation that happens behind the scenes. A bit of groundwork before you start can make the process smoother, faster, and far less stressful once you find the right property.
At Tait Real Estate, we believe confident buyers are well-prepared buyers. Here are some key steps to put yourself in the best position before making an offer.
Get Your Finance in Order
Before falling in love with a home, it’s essential to understand your borrowing capacity. Speak with your mortgage broker or lender early to arrange pre-approval on your home loan. This not only clarifies your budget but also shows sellers you’re serious when it comes time to make an offer.
Keep in mind that pre-approvals usually have an expiry date. If your search takes a few months, check in with your broker to ensure your finance remains current. Having this step sorted early prevents unnecessary delays and strengthens your position when negotiating.
Line Up Your Legal Support
Before reaching the offer stage, make sure you have a trusted solicitor or licensed conveyancer ready to assist. They’ll review contracts, highlight any legal considerations, and guide you through settlement once your offer is accepted.
Having your legal support in place ahead of time allows you to act quickly and confidently when the right opportunity presents itself.
Consider Pre-Purchase Inspections
When you find a property you’re serious about, ask whether a pre-sale pest and building inspection has already been completed. If not, consider making it a condition of your offer to have your own inspections carried out.
A professional pest and building inspection provides valuable insight into the property’s condition and can help you make an informed decision. It can also give you confidence that there are no unexpected issues once you’ve committed to the purchase.
The Bottom Line
Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but preparation is what truly sets you up for success. From securing finance to having the right professionals on your side, every step you take before making an offer helps create a smoother and more confident path to property ownership.
When you’re ready to take the next step, Tait Real Estate is here to guide you. With local market expertise, access to upcoming listings, and genuine, independent advice, we’ll help you move forward with confidence.