Knowing if you are ready to buy

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Buying a home is always exciting, and sometimes daunting. One of the big questions you might be asking yourself, is whether you're ready to buy, or not? There are several reasons why people become homeowners. If one or more of the following scenarios sound familiar, chances are you're probably ready.

1. You want to get onto the property ladder

You've been renting, but you would much rather pay that money into your own bond, instead of putting it towards someone else's home loan. The thought of finally having a place that you can call your own also appeals to you greatly - it's an investment in your future, you can decorate it without having to run every decision past your landlord, and you could renovate to suit your lifestyle.

2. Your life is changing

Are you thinking of getting married? Perhaps you've already tied the knot and are planning to start a family, or your family is growing? These are some of the big milestones in life that prompt us to change homes. If you have a baby on the way, for example, you may want another bedroom or an outside area where little ones can play safely. Alternately, you could be at a later life stage where your children are getting ready to leave home, and you're thinking of getting a smaller space that requires less upkeep and would cost less to run.

3. You want a good education for your kids

If your children are close to school-going age and you're starting to think about where you'd like to send them, it can be tough giving them the kind of education you want if you don't live close to your preferred school/s. Owning property in the school catchment area could be a major advantage when it comes to applying for a place

4. You want an outdoor area

South Africa is blessed with one of the best climates in the world. If you're living in a flat or apartment, you may be dreaming of a home with an outdoor area where you can entertain friends and family, perhaps invest in a built-in braai or get a pizza oven. An outdoor area also gives you the option of a beautiful garden or a little vegetable patch, a kids' play area, a swimming pool, etc.

5. You want more space

There are many reasons you might decide it's time for a bigger property. Maybe you worked from home during the pandemic and the dining room table just isn't an ideal office? Perhaps you're thinking about a property with a garden cottage or flatlet for elderly parents? Or maybe the kids are growing up and your home is starting to feel a little too snug for everyone's comfort and sanity?

6. You want a better lifestyle

Have you been considering 'semigration' - relocating from one part of the country to another - for better quality of life? With the pandemic having made working from home the new normal for many South Africans, the dream of moving to a small coastal town or a quiet country village is suddenly a lot more doable. Whatever your reason for wanting to buy a home, when it's time to make that move, give us a call and we'll get you the best interest rate on your bond. Or let us pre-approve you first, before you start your search, and you'll know your exact home loan affordability. Best of all, remember, our services won't cost you a cent.