We are taught from a young age not to dive into a pool or dam without investigating the depth and any possible dangers which may lurk beneath the surface. Buying property can be a wonderful experience, especially when buying a new home, but like diving into refreshing waters, it's best to be sure before diving into a property deal.

This article will give you some advice on the steps to be taken in finding and purchasing a home, from the time you decide that you are interested in buying a home to the signing of the contract. Educating yourself before beginning your search for a new home will make the process that much quicker and easier, for you, the seller and the agent, which means that you will get the best house for your money without unnecessary delays.

Establish Your Budget
Many home loan providers have websites offering loan payment calculators, where you can establish how much you can afford to loan. Alternatively you could visit a home loan consultant who will help you establish what your home buying budget will be. This is a good place to start. Major Mortgages offers excellent assistance in assisting homebuyers in the preparation of a budget. See contact details below.

Familiarise Yourself with the Laws Governing the Buying of Property
There are rules and regulations which should shape the property purchasing or selling process, however these are not always adhered to, whether this is due to ineptitude or a slipup of some sort, it will be to your benefit to be educated on the legal requirements involved in buying a house. This will allow you to pick up on any problems as they arise, dealing with them quickly will avoid frustrating delays at a later stage.

Search for a Home Loan
Too often home buyers wait until after they have found the house they wish to buy before searching for a home loan. This can take some time, so get it out of the way before looking for your house. You should get offers from several lenders, and enquire about pre-approval home loan offers. Major Mortgages, will contact all major institutions to get the best rate for you. One phone call can save you a lot of time and money. See their details below

Begin Hunting for your New Home
Once you have an idea of the price range you are targeting and have prepared the groundwork for getting a loan, you are ready to begin house hunting. There are some things to keep in mind when searching for a home. First and foremost you should consider location. What does the neighbourhood look like? Are there schools nearby? Remember that it is better to get a bad house in a good neighbourhood than to get a good house in a bad neighbourhood.

Make an Offer on the House
Don't be afraid of negotiations. The property's listed price is not cast in stone. Try to push for a better price and see what the response is. Once you agree on a price make sure to carefully read through the purchase and sale agreement before signing. Talk to your real estate agent about any problems you have with the document. Do not sign yet though... Make sure that the seller that you made the offer to is the real owner of the property. Your real estate agents should be able to explain the offer to purchase to you. You, as the buyer, have to perform certain activities; make sure that you are in a position to perform on time as per the contract.

Have the Property Inspected
Be sure that the contract includes beetle and electrical, if not have the house inspected before signing the contract. The inspector should have experience in residential properties and allow you to accompany him during the inspection. This will set your mind at ease, letting you know about any problems the property may give you down the line. A Beetle certificate is included in the offer to purchase in the Western Cape but it is not custom in Gauteng. Make sure that you are protected by a special clause where the seller will issue an electrical certificate.

Shop Around for Insurance
You will need to have your insurance lined up and ready before signing the contract. With so many specialist websites out there it is not difficult to find quotes and tips on buying insurance online.

Finally You Can Sign the Papers
Do not be shy of asking questions before you sign. This is the time to handle any issues that may be troubling you, because once you have signed it may be too late. Buying your new home is a very important - not to mention expensive - step to take, so never be afraid of asking questions, and be 100 percent sure of your decision.