Buying a property

[broken1]

Hoping to buy a property we like in the next few days, anything we should look out for?

I have done automated valuations, so my price is in line with other places sold in the area and in line with the municipal valuation.

Do the estate agents try and put anything funny in their contracts or should it all be above board? I obviously will read through the contract with a fine tooth-comb to check - what should I look out for?

 

[seted]

Ensure that the conveyancer is one that you trust.

Consider employing your own conveyancer to advise you on whether the appointed conveyancer is doing a proper job, and whether the sale agreement is sound etc. Agents are also more likely to listen to your attorney than you if there are problems.

If you employ an attorney in the same city as your Deeds Office, make sure that they do work that often takes them to the Deeds Office. If there is a problem with the lodgment or transfer, they will know whose door to knock on.

 

[Pilgrim]

Walk through the property and take photos of each and every room, area, wall, ceiling etc.

When you move in the first day do the same, take photos again. If there is any damage that was "hidden" by a carpet, cupboard, painting etc let your estate agent and the attorney know immediately.

Other than that, good luck

P.S. Got my property on my name on the 21st, still happy all the way

 

[etwylite]

get a copy of title deed prior to purchase..check servitudes, right of ways etc..and be happy with them. check coverage, FAR, and zoning. check neighbouring properties rights/zoning.
Make condition of sale that seller supplies council approved plans for all construction,alterations , pool etc..
itemise all items to be left etc pool cleaner, dstv dish etc.

All standard estate agent docs vary from agency to agency..they are NOT standard..read thoroughly and cross out and sign anything that does not apply. ( there should be a lot crossed out cos a lot of paragraphs refer to buying by juristic persons)..

if getting a bond, CROSS out the clause that says the agent can get you a bond if you fail..this means they can get you a bond at ANY rate and concludes the sale as a bond has been granted. Also they get a kickback from originator/bank etc.

I also cross out the clause which lets them keep a SOLD board on the property after the sale. I dont need the attention and they dont pay me for the advertising..there contract is ith the seller not me.

also check your occupation date..i usully make it on transfer, as if before and transfer delayed (as in jhb recently up to 6 months) - you will pay occupational rent (unless you want to of course)

just check, check and take no ones word at face value (seller or agent or conveyencer)
and congratulations!!!

 

[McSack]

Take a drive around the area and see which agent seems to be the most successful (specifically those from the bigger reputable companies - they tend to not just hire any kokkolollie off the street). 9 times out of 10 there's a reason for this.
Contact them, tell them your requirements and let them set up some properties to view when it suits you. Try make it during the day so you can get a proper look at each property. Also ask if the agent has qualified under the new NQF Services Seta structure
Contracts/OTP's should be just about standard if you are dealing with reputable companies. Anything you are not sure is bolted down but you think should stay should be specified seperately (the OTP should have space for you to write these down)
Remember the seller gets to appoint the conveyancer, but if you are using a reputable, professional agent then they would most probably be suggesting the use of someone that they trust to ensure the smooth transfer of the property... usually a firm that is accredited on all the major bank's panels

 

[etwylite]

And you are welcome to appoint your own conveyencer(put it in the OTP). There is no law that says the seller has to although it is generally accepted, but if they want the sale, i have never had anyone turn down my request to appoint. BTW usually the agent directs the seller who to appoint and again pockets a "referral fee"..so if you know someone who will give you a discount on transfer fees, by all means go ahead, otherwie you will pay the prescribed fees to the "sellers" conveyencer.

 

[drukkie]

Make sure all levies etc are up to date...Electricity rates and taxes etc....