SUMM E R 20 24
SENSATIONAL SIGHTS: SOUTH COAST HOMES WITH STUNNING SEA VIEWS
H OW TO BE EN ER GY S M A RT A N D S USTAIN AB L E T HI S S U M M E R
AN IN VESTO R’S GUID E TO R EN TAL APPR AISAL S
Front Cover Image - 4 Blackbutt Street, O’Connor Very few opportunities exist to secure a DNA architects master piece, crafted by Ross Norwood. This luxurious residence is unique and stands out as one of the finest homes to come to the market within the area. Located in O’Connor most tightly held and elevated pockets this residence is superbly appointed and impeccably crafted to the highest standards. Sold Summer 2023
Welcome
05
How to be energy smart and sustainable this summer
06
An investor’s guide to rental appraisals
18
Canberra’s best swim spots that aren’t pools
Sensational sights: South Coast homes with stunning sea views
09
Summer Skydiving with Skydive Oz
15
23 SUM M E R 20 24 E D IT IO N E D ITO R Jessica Chamberlain
C R E AT IVE D IR E C T ION Jessica Chamberlain
C O NT R IB UTO R S Amy Braddon Belinda Chamberlain
Your guide to buying an offthe-plan property
30
C OVE R P HOTO Nick Burrows
PU BLI SHE D SE ASO N A L LY BY ADVERT ISING E NQU I R I ES magazine@blackshaw.com.au FIN D US AT www.blackshaw.com.au or @blackshawrealestate Disclaimer: While we take every care to ensure details are correct, the publisher will not take any responsibility for errors or omissions, including operators who may have closed. Where prices, stock or dates are quoted, they are correct at the time of publications and are subject to change. Thanks to all who have contributed to this issue. All Rights Reserved. 3
4
INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2024
Photography by Raelle Gann
Welcome Welcome to the Summer 2024 issue of the Inspired Living Magazine. Brought to our community by Blackshaw to showcase and guide readers on current trends and topics surrounding homes, from the nation’s capital to the south coast region of Batemans Bay. Inspired Living is all about discovering possibilities. Being inspired in life and in your home, and gaining insights into local causes and topics that matter. Providing our readers with a unique perspective from property enthusiasts and local talents. We are always on the lookout to present collections from local designers, artists and more. Our Summer issue offers ideas to include in your calendar, from skydiving, to picturesque swimming spots and breathtaking views. We have also included energy saving tips and suggestions to consider when investing or buying off the plan. To inspire you to embrace the Summer time in Canberra we have details of our Nation’s best places to swim that are not pools. Enjoy this complimentary magazine, become inspired and find endless possibilities for your own inspired living. Belinda Chamberlain, Managing Principal Blackshaw Real Estate
WELCOME
5
How to be energy smart and sustainable this summer Even though summer is here, it’s never too late to be smart with your energy use. By making simple changes, you can stay cool, be sustainable and cut your bills starting now.
Photography by Family Handyman
6
INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2024
CONTROL THE TEMPERATURE One of the simplest but most effective ways to reduce your energy bill is to turn down your thermostat. Lowering the temperature by 1°C will reduce your energy bill by as much as 10%, says the ACT Government’s ActSmart initiative, which recommends a thermostat setting of 23˚C or above during summer. Most modern thermostats allow you to program your air conditioner to turn on and off at certain times of the day, so use the timer to suit your lifestyle and schedule. Best of all, it will save you having to remember to turn it off when you go to bed or leave the house, saving you unnecessary energy costs.
CHECK INSULATION According to ActSmart, cracks and gaps around your home can account for 10–15% of air loss. In summer, inadequate insulation can lead to cool air escaping, making cooling systems work overtime to regulate the internal temperature, leading to unnecessarily high energy bills. Start your insulation checks by assessing that
Photography by Dimas Anggara
your doors and windows are well sealed. Door gaps can be fixed with weather strips and tubular draught blockers. Window gaps can be addressed with a sealant, or if your budget allows, consider speaking to a professional about your options for doubleglazed windows. You can also improve window insulation with close-fitting lined curtains and blinds with box pelmets. When choosing curtains, make sure they go all the way to the floor and wrap to the wall on either side of your window. Likewise, line your curtains with block out backing or tightly woven materials to trap internal air in.
Photography by Erik Mclean
HOW TO BE ENERGY SMART AND SUSTAINABLE THIS SUMMER
7
Photography by Bernie Almanz
Photography by Delaney
INCREASE AIR FLOW
THINK SMART
A quick way to beat the heat and reduce
There are lots of other small but savvy ways
energy costs is to opt for a fan over an
you can slash your energy bill this summer.
air conditioner. Admittedly, sometimes it’s
Here are some you can do straight away:
too hot to go without the AC, but there will be days where a ceiling fan or standing/ portable fan is sufficient – and they are cheap to run, too! According to ActSmart, fans only cost between 1 and 3 cents an hour to operate. On hot days, close
- Switch off your air conditioner before you go to sleep - Limit the use of household appliances that generate heat
curtains, blinds, windows and doors during
- Switch off your air conditioner half an hour
the day, but when temperatures fall, open
before you leave the house, rather than
everything up again and turn the fan on to
when you walk out the door
allow evening breezes to circulate around your home. Ceiling fans with large blades move more air and are effective even at low speeds, which means they’re quieter through the night. In the morning, close everything up again to trap the cool air in.
- Minimise the areas to be cooled across your home by closing doors between rooms - Opt for lighter bedding in summer to keep you cool while you sleep - Don’t forget to dress for the season – wear breathable fabrics so you are less likely to turn on the air conditioner.
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INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2024
Canberra’s best swim spots that aren’t pools You don’t need to head to the beach or a man-made pool to beat the heat this summer – there are countless natural swim spots in the ACT where you can take a dip, cool off and relax. Whether you’re after a shady river, a beautiful bay, a picturesque watering hole or a clear sparkling creek, Canberra’s got something for you.
Photography by ABC News
CANBERRA’S BEST SWIM SPOTS THAT AREN’T POOLS
9
COTTER The Cotter Avenue Recreation Area is one of Canberra’s most popular locations for the locals in summer, with numerous swimming areas, barbeque facilities, picnic tables, bushwalking tracks, playgrounds and loads of green space. Here you’ll find the Cotter Bend swimming area located at the junction of the Cotter and Paddy’s rivers, offering ample shade from the overhanging pine trees situated on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. Nearby, you’ll also find Casuarina Sands, a riverside beach with 360-degree views of the surrounding hills – a picturesque place for a dip.
Photography by ABC News
YARRALUMLA BAY Yarralumla Bay is home to one of Canberra’s hidden gems and arguably one of the capital’s most picturesque locations for a summer dip. The area here comprises a sandy beach and enclosures for both swimming and paddling. The nearby Weston Park site offers an adventure playground, picnic tables, electric barbeques, cycle paths, and gorgeous views of Black Mountain Tower.
Photography by ACT Government
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INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2024
Photography by Canberra Weekly
CANBERRA AQUA PARK This summer, the super-fun Canberra Aqua Park experience will
URIARRA CROSSING
once again return to Lake Burley Griffin. Located at Black Mountain Peninsula, this giant inflatable obstacle course is made up of slides,
Uriarra Crossing is situated along the Murrumbidgee River and
ladders and a huge jumping pillow. If you haven’t been before, then
has three fantastic swimming spots for you to enjoy this summer –
add this to the top of your list and prepare to have an awesome day
Uriarra East Picnic Area, Swamp Creek Picnic Area and Uriarra West
out. All sessions must be booked in advance, so don’t miss out.
Picnic Area. All three areas are perfect for picnics and are located within a few hundred metres of each other. There are several walking trails close by, notably the 2km Uriarra Loop that starts and ends at the Uriarra East Picnic Area and takes you along the Murrumbidgee River near the Molonglo river junction.
Photography by ABC news
CANBERRA’S BEST SWIM SPOTS THAT AREN’T POOLS
11
Photography by NSW National Parks
FLEA CREEK Flea Creek in the Brindabella National Park is home to one of the region’s prettiest swimming holes. Situated by the Goodradigbee River, the gently flowing waters here make it dream to visit on a hot a summer’s day. While you’re here you can also enjoy bird watching, fishing, or reading a good book under the shade of the casuarina trees. What adds to the charm is its remote location, only accessible via 4WD, but it’s worth the trip, especially if you like to camp.
PINE ISLAND Pine Island Beach is located at Pine Island Reserve on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River and has long been one of south Canberra’s most popular watering holes. Locals love the bay of calm water that has formed behind the small island in the river, not only perfect for swimming, but canoeing and fishing too. Here you’ll also find playground equipment, electric barbecues, picnic tables, a picnic shelter, and various walking tracks through and around the reserve.
“Locals love the bay of calm water that has formed behind the small island in the river, not only perfect for swimming, but canoeing and fishing too” Photography by Swimming Hole Heaven
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INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2024
POINT HUT The Point Hut Recreation Area spans both sides of the Murrumbidgee River and is home to Point Hut Crossing, a local Canberra favourite for swimming on a hot summer’s day. Here you’ll find a large, flat dogfriendly beach with both shallow pools and deeper waters, plus good access for launching kayaks and canoes, picnic tables and toilet facilities. You’ll find several walking trails nearby, notably the easy and scenic one-hour walk to Pine Island South. Dogs are welcome onleash and off-leash in designated areas.
Photography by Parks ACT
GIGERLINE At Gigerline Nature Reserve you’ll find sparkling clear waters, sandy beaches, a rugged gorge, lush native vegetation and lots of grassy space that’s perfect for picnicking. The site is known for the Tharwa Sandwash on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, a large sand mound with water on both sides – shallow on one side, deep on the other. The area has picnic tables and is frequented by birdwatchers on the lookout for one of the 200 bird species known in the area. To the south of the reserve you’ll discover Angle Crossing, a lovely scenic place to paddle in shallow waters, take a stroll on one of the bushwalking tracks, or launch a kayak or canoe.
Photography by Parks ACT
CANBERRA’S BEST SWIM SPOTS THAT AREN’T POOLS
13
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14
PAID ADVERTISMENT INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2024
AUSTRALIA’S MUST-HAVE COFFEE TABLE BOOKS
Summer Skydiving with Skydive Oz This summer, feel the rush of a lifetime and experience the ultimate thrill of skydiving with Skydive Oz.
Photography by Skydive Oz
SUMMER SKYDIVING WITH SKYDIVE OZ
15
Skydive Oz is the only full-service beach resort
skydiving
centre
in
Australia.
Throughout 2023, they embarked on a tour around country NSW and Canberra with the aim of motivating more people to experience the thrill of tandem skydiving. For the 2023/24 summer season, they are back operating from their base in Moruya – the perfect location to soak up the breathtaking views of the South Coast coastline from the sky. Skydive Oz has been family owned and operated since 2000, first starting in Dubbo and Trangie, then moving to Moruya Heads in 2007. Their purpose-built hangar and drop zone are located at the mouth of the Moruya River with their main runway running alongside the beautiful beach.
Photography by Jonathan Franc
Photography by Alex Braga
16
INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2024
“Embrace your fears and try out skydiving” Their tandem skydiving packages take you on a 20-minute scenic flight as you climb up to 15,000 feet. Then, as you leave the plane, you’ll feel the rush of free falling for up to 70 seconds at over 200 km/h with your experienced instructor, followed by a gentle 5-minute ride under a parachute as you glide back down to land. The handpicked and highly experienced team of professional Skydive Oz instructors come with a combined 101,000-plus jumps between them. The crew pride themselves on a commitment to safety, exceptional customer service and top-notch equipment, and will guide you through every step of the process, no matter if you’re a beginner or experienced skydiver. For those who want to take their skydiving experience to the next level, Skydive Oz also offers full Accelerated Freefall and A Licence courses and training packages.
Photography by Skydive Oz
So, if you’re after an exhilarating and memorable
activity
this
summer,
then
embrace your fears and try out skydiving – you’ll have the time of your life!
SUMMER SKYDIVING WITH SKYDIVE OZ
17
An investor’s guide to rental appraisals Are you an investor? Do you want to know what your property is worth in the current rental market? The rental landscape can be a complex space to navigate, so if you’re looking to lease your property it’s vital that you seek a rental appraisal from an experienced leasing consultant in order to maximise your return, protect your investment, and minimise risk. Here’s our essential guide to rental appraisals.
Photography by Kari Shea
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INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2024
A rental appraisal uses data-driven insights and expert local knowledge to determine what your property is worth in the current market. Rental appraisals are best performed by an experienced local expert – someone who knows the area, understands the demographics of the tenant pool, can help to secure and retain quality tenants, and simply achieve the very best result for you. A typical rental appraisal will include a thorough comparative market analysis to help build a picture of what your property is worth, taking into consideration the features of the property, the location, and a view to how your property compares to current and recent rentals in the surrounding area.
AN INVESTOR’S GUIDE TO RENTAL APPRAISALS
19
The
real
estate
market
is
constantly
changing and fluctuating – in one part of the year it might be a buyer’s market, and in another it might be a seller’s market, so an experienced leasing consultant can explain how these market conditions will impact the rent you might get for your investment. During a rental appraisal, a leasing consultant will also explain the benefits they can bring to you and your investment. Firstly, they are there to help maximise your returns, achieve excellent capital growth on your investment, and ensure you receive a reliable income stream. They do this by being your expert on the ground, being knowledgeable about the market and the competition, and providing honest insight into what tenants are looking for. Photography by Maria Ziegler
Photography by Sarah Dorweiler
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INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2024
A leasing consultant will also explain how they can take care of your property once it’s been rented. In-house property managers will take care of the day-to-day management of your investment, including vetting new tenancy applications, organising maintenance
requests
and
repairs,
conducting open inspections, and managing payments and arrears. They will also be the first to know of any market changes, so can guide you on whether you need to hold, increase, or decrease your rent. Property management is anything but simple, and property managers must constantly monitor complex and frequent changes to legislation across the rental landscape to ensure compliance with the law at all times. They understand and navigate these changes on a daily basis, so during an appraisal, a leasing consultant will explain your legal obligations as a landlord, as well as outline tenancy rights and all laws pertaining to choosing and evicting tenants.
Photography by Pedro Miranda
AN INVESTOR’S GUIDE TO RENTAL APPRAISALS
21
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INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2024
Photography by Sherma Lewis
Sensational sights: South Coast homes with stunning sea views Over the years, we’ve been privileged to sell homes that boast some of the most commanding and awe-inspiring views along the South Coast – the kind of views you could only dream of. Here are some of our favourites.
SENSATIONAL SIGHTS: SOUTH COAST HOMES WITH STUNNING SEA VIEWS
23
44 MYAMBA PARADE, SURFSIDE
1/21 BARBARA CRESCENT, DENHAMS BEACH
Properties like this magnificently designed
This four-bedroom property presented an
three-bedroom home rarely come on the
incredible opportunity for a buyer to own
market – it was a once-in-a-generation
their very own piece of paradise in a sought-
opportunity for a buyer to secure an absolute
after location – only a 3-minute walk to
waterfront masterpiece with direct access
Denhams Beach and a 10-minute drive from
to the beach. Sold in December 2022, the
Batemans Bay. Sold in February 2021, this
inspiration for this home’s design was drawn
stylish architecturally designed, master-built
from the previous owner’s postings in the
home boasts some of the most captivating
Mediterranean and South Asia, and features
ocean views along the South Coast. The
an enchanted garden and both indoor and
home’s open plan design, vaulted ceilings,
outdoor living spaces that capture stunning
large glass windows, outdoor spaces and
ocean and island views.
well-positioned bedrooms all showcase the spectacular elevated views over Denham’s, Surf and Wimbie beaches.
24
INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2024
58 YUGURA STREET, MALUA BAY This
single
level,
north-facing
beach
house is situated right on the waterfront at Garden Bay, known for dolphin sightings, gentle waves and rock pools – the perfect location to swim, fish, kayak, paddleboard, and snorkel. Sold in April 2022, this classic three-bedroom cottage features an oceanfacing entertainer’s deck that runs the length of the house with views of the coastline out to Black Rock and the Tollgate Islands. This home also offers access to clifftop walks just outside the front door.
19 BRONTE CRES CENT, SUNSHINE BAY The sale of this property offered a rare opportunity for a buyer to acquire their very own piece of headland heaven. Owned by one family since 1957, this classic threebedroom coastal cottage was loved and enjoyed by multiple generations before being sold in August 2021. The property is perfectly set on 1410m2 of landscaped gardens offering incredible ocean views from most rooms, and a sunny porch and deck that also enjoy spectacular views and the northerly sunshine. Just outside the front door, there are walking tracks to two beautiful beaches.
SENSATIONAL SIGHTS: SOUTH COAST HOMES WITH STUNNING SEA VIEWS
25
41 BARBARA CRESCENT, DENHAMS BEACH A fortunate buyer secured this fabulous five-bedroom South Coast gem in May 2022. Only a short stroll to Denhams Beach, this open plan home is set at the end of a private cul-de-sac in the most idyllic coastal setting. It boasts landscaped gardens, an entertainer’s gazebo and a deck to enjoy the glorious beach views – the ideal spot to spend summer days and nights.
1/15 BRONTE CRESCENT, SUNSHINE BAY This four-bedroom property offers desirable clifftop living in one of the area’s most sought-after streets. Sold in December 2021, this delightful home has access to Caseys Beach via the rear reserve and the inviting waters of Sunshine Cove are also nearby. Some of its best features include a northfacing patio with stunning ocean views over Caseys Beach. The glorious ocean views are also seen from many rooms, including the living, kitchen, dining, as well as the main bedroom with its own private balcony.
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INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2024
10 MOORONG CRESCENT, MALUA BAY
8 BEECHWOOD COURT, SUNSHINE BAY
This quintessential Malua Bay beach house
This fabulous Sunshine Bay property was
was sold in September 2023 and offers the
sold in February 2022. A private five-
ultimate coastal lifestyle – the place to leave
bedroom waterfront residence, it is ideally
your cares behind, smell the sea and soak
located right on the shores of Sunshine
up the spectacular beach and ocean views.
Cove with glorious ocean views from
This character-filled home boasts bright and
most rooms. The home’s hidden secret
spacious interiors over two levels, as well as
is revealed through the glass doors into
uninterrupted ocean views from the kitchen,
the contemporary living and dining area
dining and wrap-around deck where you
complete
are likely to see dolphins as they enjoy their
looking directly out over the ocean. Fling
morning frolic. What more could you ask for?
open the glass sliding doors and step out
with
floor-to-ceiling
windows
onto the enormous deck – perfect for those long lazy lunches and lantern-lit dinners.
SENSATIONAL SIGHTS: SOUTH COAST HOMES WITH STUNNING SEA VIEWS
27
Essential elements when marketing your property
A highly targeted, visual presentation of your property.
Print publications with large audience reach and a glossy finish.
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INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
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A detailed resource for those who like their research.
LOOKING TO SELL OR LEASE YOUR PROPERTY? There are a range of advertising platforms and tools to consider when showcasing your property’s finest features, to ensure it makes an impact in the real estate market. Experience our professional perspective and see what we do in the essential elements behind a successful property marketing campaign.
YO U S E E E - N E W S L E TT E R S
YO U S E E P H OTO G R A P H Y & V I D E O S
A way to stay in-touch and informed.
A detailed virtual inspection for those who can’t find the time.
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Rates
$4,687
Section
40 10
EER UV Land
Light, Space
Block
3.0 $697,000 1300
Luxury,
ion
& Locat
and standard t to an exacting ng, this throughou entertaini space and and renovated family living and le re of light, Extended d for comfortab exudes an atmosphe landscape designed beautiful inside. sqm home driveway, to expect superb 310 ing the circular a hint of what luxury. Approach lawns provide and lush nite gardens 40mm stone/gra spacious s and a kitchen with its designer pool with steel appliance The striking stainless ted swimming beyond s, quality solar-hea benchtop Ridge bushland the the large are the Farrer pantry overlooks gardens and to the kitchen via sliding of lush adjacent area backdrop ng. Also and g the pool entertaini district views; of overlookin perfect for also expansive room a bank with lounge fireplace, formal dining areas the formal elegant gas All of these glass doors; room boasting an tdoor study nook. indoor-ou and a handy a large family uilt shelving doors offering seamless custom-b sliding glass have large n. been cleverly integratio have also a huge of this property ssing a quiet sqm grounds d spaces encompa play area; The 1300 children's – all with segregate olive groves designed garden; grassy citrus, and e vegetable a recycled productiv fire pit; camellia, e walls and in with le location sandston sitting area and d with attractive fence. The dress-circ to nature partitione feature direct access shops, shopping -battened street has hardwood to local schools. Farrer’s best proximity reputable arguably well as close and a variety of trails, as Hospital, walking the Canberra centres,
sco
4 a
ber
ay 21 Novem
11am Saturd Blackshaw
Manuka
| 6295 2433
Mario Sanfrance 027 0412 488
NT FARRER BURY CRESCE 57 HAWKES
Auction
ville Street,
| 27 Bougain
Manuka
2b
2c
PROPERTY FEATURES
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Something to hold onto, for those who appreciate the essentials.
Local awareness and interest.
1300 550 240 | enquiries@blackshaw.com.au | blackshaw.com.au 29
Your guide to buying an offthe-plan property Buying an off-the-plan property is becoming increasingly popular in recent years with the release of many new suburbs and housing developments across the territory. But what does buying off the plan entail? From benefits and budget to location and lifestyle, here are the essentials to get you started.
Photography byAvel Chuklano
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INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2024
Photography by Raphael Lovaski
HOW IT WORKS When you buy off the plan, you’re buying a property that hasn’t been built yet. That means you’re using drawings, floorplans, and computer-generated imagery to see what
Photography by Evgeniy Surzhan
the finished home will look like, and then buying the home based on that information.
BUDGET The first thing you need to know is your budget. If you’re not a cash buyer, it’s a good idea to speak to a bank or mortgage broker before you do anything. Sometimes there are restrictions or special requirements for off-the-plan homes, such as not being able to borrow as much as an established home, or needing a bigger deposit, so the sooner you start the conversation with a lender, the better. Photography by Ryan Ancill
YOUR GUIDE TO BUYING AN OFF-THE-PLAN PROPERTY
31
Photography by Etienne Girardet
“When buying off the plan, set yourself some realistic expectations and prepare for any unforeseen delays, then consider anything less than that a bonus.”
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INSPIRED LIVING MAGAZINE
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PLANNING
RESEARCH
While you figure out your budget, you need
When buying off the plan, you won’t be able
to be clear with what you’re looking for in a
to visit the property you are looking to buy,
property. Start by identifying your nice-to-
so it’s important to research the building
haves and your deal breakers when it comes
developer to make sure they are reputable
to layout, specification, location, lifestyle and
and that you actually like the style of homes
how soon you want (or need) to move in.
they build. If you’ve already got a specific
Then, use that information to create some
development or home in mind, then carefully
pros and cons to help you decide if a brand-
review the developer’s plans and timelines.
new or an established home is the better
It’s also a good idea to visit the area, as well
option for you.
as the site’s display home, if one is available, in order to get an idea of what your finished home might look like.
HIDDEN COSTS
TIMING
When buying off the plan, you need to
Another vital aspect of the home-buying
be prepared for hidden and unforeseen costs. Admittedly, one of the many benefits of buying off the plan is that you can often make upgrades to your kitchen, bathroom, flooring and fittings. However, be mindful that the high-end finishes you see in a display home might not come as standard in the home you want. This means that if you don’t ask the right questions, you might end up with a home that isn’t what you expected, and you might then have to spend thousands to change it. Finally, before you sign on the dotted line, be aware of the fine print
process
is
timing.
When
buying
an
established home, you might only have to wait a few months before you can move in, but for an off-the-plan property, you might be waiting up to, or well over, a year, depending on the construction schedule. When buying off the plan, set yourself some realistic expectations and prepare for any unforeseen delays, then consider anything less than that a bonus. Timing is also relevant to your financial situation, so be sure to check how delays will affect your mortgage application.
and your rights when it comes to additional construction costs and lengthy delays.
Photography by Immo Renovation YOUR GUIDE TO BUYING AN OFF-THE-PLAN PROPERTY
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