Buying a first home brings together finance, timing and emotion. A clear checklist keeps the process structured, so important steps are not crowded out by the excitement of the search.
Set a realistic budget
Understand the full cost beyond the purchase price, including stamp duty, legal fees, inspections, finance and moving costs. Confirm the borrowing capacity early with a lender.
Clarify the priorities
Rank location, commute, space and property type before viewing. A written brief makes each inspection easier to compare and reduces the risk of being swayed by presentation alone.
Verify before you commit
Arrange building and pest inspections, review strata or owners corporation documents where relevant, and have the contract reviewed by a professional before signing.