Most buyers get their real estate knowledge and experience at a hefty financial price. They are so busy earning money that they don't have the time to research and save money.

These few brief hints, in today's fast-paced world, may save you several thousand dollars if you are buying or selling today.

1. USE A LAWYER

When you find a home you like at a price you are happy to pay hire a lawyer and have them look over your paperwork.

When you purchase from Park Real Estate we will forward a copy pf all your paperwork to your nominated lawyer.

2. BUILDING & PEST INSPECTION

For your protection you should purchase any home subject to a building and pest inspection report.

Should such a report show that the property needs major structural work you may then elect to withdraw from the sale or re negotiate the price.

3. PRICE

Always have a look at several homes in a particular area prior to purchasing one.

When you inspect a few homes in a similar price range you will get a "feel" for what may be a good price for the home you like.

4. ALLOW FOR THE HIDDEN COSTS

No matter what anyone tells you - or no matter what you believe - buying a home will cost you more than you think.

Do some homework!

There are various fee's and costs associated with purchasing a property, its vital that none of these come as a surprise.

5. WHAT PRICE PRIDE OR EGO?

Before you buy, ask yourself which is more important to you: Having a home that looks great and you worry about the repayments or having a home where you don't have to worry about the repayments?

Always consider buying a smaller home for a cheaper price or in a less salubrious area. It's much cheaper to buy extra beds for visitors than it is to buy empty bedrooms.

Remember, excess debt is a major cause of unhappiness