Are you single but want to buy a property to live in ? Read this first
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Scared to Buy Alone? Four Tips for Single House Hunters
You’re single and ready to buy. Right now, house hunting might feel a bit daunting, even downright scary. But it’s also one of the smartest decisions you can make, especially if you’re secure in your job or have family support and committed to a location.
If you’re able to overcome your fear of commitment and head into homeownership on your own, here are a few key points that should make the hunt a little easier:
Dream slightly over your budget.
Buying a home or apartment on your own is exciting! Plus, it’s a great investment in your financial future. But make sure you are looking at properties you can afford, especially if you have any hiccups in your financial profile. Life changes like sudden unemployment or serious health issues that are impossible to predict.
Buying a property is one of the smartest decisions you can make, especially if you’re secure in your job and committed to a location.
The reality is that there are many financial hazards that could affect your ability to cover your monthly outgoings. So before you commit to a lifestyle you might not be able to afford, consider what it would take to make the additional monthly costs if you didn’t have a steady source of income.
Inexperienced vendors and brokers tend to be greedy with pricing so look a little over your budget as they will become more negotiable as time goes by.
Do not buy a one bedroom property as there is no way to leverage your costs down should you become financially stretched by having a boarders income.
Pay attention to safety.
Not to be a fear monger, but when you’re buying alone it’s important to remember you won’t be home all of the time. As a single homeowner, it’s unlikely that someone will be at the house during the day — or even every night. That’s why you should consider safety and security issues when you inspect properties for sale. Of course, you want to look for a property in a low-crime neighborhood, but there are other factors to consider when you preview your new pad. Are there locks on the windows? Is the street or driveway well lit at night? Does the property come equipped with a security system? Although they aren’t necessarily as enticing as stainless-steel appliances or skylights, these types of safety considerations will help you sleep better at night.
Are you a weekend warrior?
Sure, you have the benefit of enjoying your alone time in your spacious new home. But guess what? You’re still alone when the faucet leaks, when ants take over the kitchen, and when the windows need washing. Oh, and did we mention that the grass is now a foot high and the driveway needs to be repaved? If you find the idea of maintaining a single family home overwhelming, then you might want to consider a condominium, apartment or townhouse. Condo association fees go toward maintaining the overall property, and that means you’ll never have to worry about hauling out that rusty old lawnmower on a sunny Saturday.
Think resale from day one.
Purchasing a home is a long-term investment. But that doesn’t mean you won’t be ready to move one day — and there’s always the possibility that day may come sooner than you think. There are many reasons to move, including relocating for a job or unexpected family obligations. (And there’s always the chance that you fall for someone that lives across the country.) So even if you’re rooted in your community, it’s important to think about the resale value of your potential property during the search. Consider properties that have a spare bedroom, even if it’s not space that you need today. If it’s affordable, extra square metres are always worth the investment.
Don’t be sucked in to buying poorly located properties on the basis they seem cheap. Unless there is a change ( new subway, new motorway, the location will remain the same.)
Contact the Gateway to South America team to learn about the best investment opportunities in the region. The company is a benchmark for foreign investors wishing to invest in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay, providing expert advice on property acquisition and investment tours.
www.gatewaytosouthamerica.com
About Gateway to South America
Established in 2006, Gateway to South America began as a single office in Buenos Aires. Since then, it has grown into a vibrant regional network, providing professional real estate marketing services to clients in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay. If you enjoy reading our news site, please share it on your social media!
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