Most people think that Spring is peak property selling season, and while research suggests otherwise, it’s still a very advantageous time for buyers.

Say what? …. There’s actually no real hard and fast research to suggest that Spring is the best time to sell your property. But here, on the beaches, many homes start to look their best at this time of year – the gardens are in bloom, the days are warm and sunny, and the peak holiday crowds are not yet here. These are all valid reasons to list a property … and many people do. Which means that the Spring and Summer months can tend to be a competitive ‘buyers’ market’.

With that in mind, it’s important to make sure that you’re on the front foot before you head off to the open homes.

Here’s a little check list:

1. Pre-Approval

Is your pre-approval still valid? If your loan pre-approval is older than 3 months, it’s likely to need updating. Constant changes in lending criteria and bank policy mean that it’s best to have yours checked, rather than be disappointed on Auction day.

2. Deposit Bond

If your funds are already tied up in property or other investments, do you need a deposit bond? A deposit bond acts as cash substitute, and can be used when exchanging contracts and also at auctions. It’s particularly useful when you don’t want to, or can’t immediately produce the cash required for the upfront deposit, which is usually 10% of the property price. If you’re waiting on funds to come through from the sale of another property, a deposit bond can be a cheaper alternative to bridging finance too.

3. Bridging Finance

Are you buying and selling? You might need Bridging Finance – this is a loan that serves as a bridge, the enabling purchase of a new property before the existing one is sold.

4. First time buyers?

Let us help you navigate what you need to get a mortgage. Applying for your first loan can take a little extra time to ensure that all the paperwork is in order, so it’s a good idea to get started on your application before you find a home.

If you need help with any of this, talk to us.