Your offer is accepted & you're about to move
You're furiously working through the paperwork with one eye on the move, here are some tips to make sure the move goes smoothly and your new home is safe and secure.
The move
Check with your insurance company or broker to make sure that your household contents are covered while being delivered to your new home. It's also a good idea to find out whether you need additional cover for accidental damage (always good to know).
Here's a handy tip: moving can be stressful, if you've got a bit of extra money find a reputable moving company. Most moving companies offer a packing service and will handle every aspect of the move. Remember to ask for a storage option just in case there's a delay with the transfer. Also, don't forget to let your insurance company or broker know your new address once you've moved.
Security
Check with your insurance company or broker to find out what the security requirements are, things like having a linked alarm, security gates, etc. There have been some great new developments in security that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Make sure you know what you're in for
You've got a budget in mind and a to-do list that's getting longer each day, it's a good idea to get quotes for the work you need done so that you know what you're in for. Talk to the current owners and find out if you can get access to the house for an hour or two, so you can get someone in to come and accurately quote on the different jobs. Once you have all the quotes, prioritise the jobs based on the importance - don't forget to get a few comparative quotes to make sure you're getting good value for money.
Don't be afraid to ask for a discount, it's all part of the negotiation, and you may be pleasantly surprised.
Show me the money
Paying deposits upfront is always a tricky issue - as a general rule you shouldn't pay upfront, however sometimes you don't have a choice. Speak to your supplier about your concerns and try to find some middle ground. If it's a small business, cash flow is likely to be their concern, as a compromise you may have to provide a small "good faith" deposit. For the rest of the project it's a good idea to agree on project milestones and the costs linked to each phase, that way when a phase is completed you settle that portion before you move to the next. This approach protects you as well as the business owner.
Congrats on your new home and here's to lots of new memories in the making.
Written by: Wesley Cloete
Take a look here for other articles from Santam that will give you further insight on what you need to know about buying a home.