Tips for more efficient house hunting

House hunting can often feel overwhelming and time consuming, but with the right mindset, guidance, and support, finding your dream home can be an exciting adventure.

“To save time, it’s essential to be clear about what you’re looking for right from the start,” says Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa. “Set a realistic budget based on your financial situation, and identify your non-negotiable requirements, such as location, number of bedrooms, or access to schools and amenities. This will help you focus on properties that truly meet your needs.”

Once you are clear on the non-negotiables, Goslett recommends securing pre-approval for your home loan. “This not only gives you a clear picture of what you can afford but also signals to sellers that you’re a serious buyer, which can give you an edge in competitive markets like the Western Cape, for example,” he explains.

He adds that many buyers waste time and energy viewing homes that they cannot afford. “It can be tough to get over a property if you have already fallen in love with it only to discover you cannot afford it. Properties within your price range then also tend to pale in comparison, which is likely to prolong your house hunting,” says Goslett.

Another piece of advice that Goslett offers buyers is to focus on homes that meet most of your criteria to avoid wasting time on properties that are not a good fit. “While it can be tempting to view every open home in the neighbourhood on a given weekend, it can also be draining and confusing to view that many homes. House hunting fatigue can set in quickly which can derail your entire property search,” he cautions.

Thankfully, property portals have become a lot more thorough, and also allow you to filter according to your preferences. Virtual tours can also help you eliminate properties that don’t meet your standards, without needing to visit them in person. “The key is to get the balance right – if you spend too much time viewing homes online and never see any in person, you might be missing out on some good opportunities,” Goslett warns.

Apart from the usefulness of modern property portals, it can also be incredibly useful to have a real estate professional sifting through listings on your behalf. “By working closely with an agent, you can gain early access to newly listed properties and benefit from expert advice that aligns with your unique needs,” says Goslett.

As a final piece of advice, Goslett reminds buyers that the right home often checks most, but not all, of your boxes. “Trust your instincts and listen to the guidance of your agent, who has extensive market knowledge and can help you make an informed decision quickly and confidently,” he concludes.

Writer: Kayla Ferguson