This post has a focus on helping first home buyers and interstate or overseas purchasers narrow their search for an inner-city Brisbane property as they are more likely to be ‘new’ to an area. But the information can equally apply to empty nesters or retirees. It’s an area I’m particularly passionate about and I’ll always drill my buyers on!! The topic – research!
When searching for a new home, one of the first decisions you have to make is the suburb you want to live in. There are so many factors surrounding suburb choice it can become overwhelming. Buyers have to consider things like proximity to work, local schools, having access to services such as doctors and public transport and the community they’ll be living in.
Immerse yourself in the life of the suburbs you’re interested in
One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to immerse yourself in the life of a suburb before buying there. Consider the lifestyle aspects that are important to you – recreation, liveability and financial and make a list of the suburbs that fit your criteria.
Don’t just research ‘on paper’, get social!
Hang out on weekends at local cafes and get to know the owners and other customers. Chat to them about what living in the area is like.
Take your dog for a walk around the streets and get a feel for what styles of home you like. Later that day, research recent sales in the area to give you an idea of price.
Pre Covid-19, I used to advise people with young children to chat to parents at the local school pick up zones to get an understanding of what the school offers. This is much harder to do in the current climate but some parents still walk their kids to school and will be happy to chat if approached in a polite, friendly manner.
Local gyms and yoga centres offer complimentary classes to potential new members and this is another way to see if you feel the vibe in a suburb is right for you. There’s absolutely nothing to lose here. You’ll be continuing your research while getting your daily exercise in!
Get serious about making a decision
You’ll soon be able to narrow your search and once you’ve decided on a suburb you love and can afford to buy in you can start the real fun of looking for your new home.
For more information about the Paddington area, leave me a message here or give me a call on 0419 799 979.
