What Canberra buyers consider on their property journey

Buyers are feeling more optimistic in a new environment where prices are becoming more realistic, but there’s still plenty of homework to be done 

Mathew Kocic of Canberry Properties says the kickstarter on the buying cycle is motivation.

“Schools are a big one for families – it’s either to get them into the preferred primary or secondary school,” he says.

“After that, it can be a need for more space, either for a growing family or, perhaps, flexibility and options around working from home.”

Kocic says the other big segment is downsizers, who are often looking for a more central location and low maintenance. Whatever the circumstance, Kocic recommends new buyers list their main needs and then their wants.

“Wants are often what they have dreamed of, but this needs to be measured against what’s available,” he says.

Bree Currall of Belle Property agrees on key motivators for buyers and encourages those new to the market to head out to inspections and to watch what’s happening in local auctions.

“It’s important to get a sense of what’s actually on offer and what’s happening in terms of the buying dynamics,” she says.

“The best way to do that is to get out there, walk through properties and get a feel for them and what you actually want.”

Currall says an immersion into the bricks and mortar can influence buyer mindsets and better prepare them for actual market conditions.

“You can never do enough research,” she says.

• Motivation: The decision to buy is usually driven by some need: to be eligible for a quality school; maybe more space to accommodate a growing family, or perhaps it’s time to downsize.
• Needs v wants: Start with what you need in bedrooms, bathrooms, living areas and garage spaces. Then move on to what you actually want in a new place. That’s the stuff of dreams.
• Money talks: Make an appointment with your bank manager to discuss the size of your loan. Most sellers will want to know if you have pre-finance approval before they even consider an offer.

Check out our top pick of homes on the market:

Melba

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One of the most sought-after floor plans offers the flexibility of intergenerational living, a teenager’s private space or a potential income stream.

This Melba home, on more than 800 square metres, offers all options and is presented to appeal to lovers of a contemporary lifestyle – with all the trimmings.

Entry through the upper level offers 193 square metres and opens the show with a formal living room highlighted by timber flooring that leads through to a formal dining room. 

The hub is, of course, a family-sized, open-plan kitchen and living space. The kitchen provides a dramatic contrast with red glass splashbacks offset by white cabinetry and a fashion runway of an island bench. 

Gleaming stainless steel Miele appliances stand prepared to do the heavy lifting. The living area enjoys a northerly aspect and leads onto a big patio and entertaining space covered by a pergola. The four bedrooms are generous; all with built-in wardrobes and the main bedroom is super spacious with an en suite. 

The self-contained studio delivers 74 sqm metres with its own private access, open-plan living, dining and kitchen. The bedroom is huge with an updated en suite and built-in robe. There’s an additional storage room and access to the oversized garage with a big workshop area.

Shops are just across the road, the bus stops around the corner and schools, playgrounds, and greenspaces are only a stroll away.

Auction: 11.30am, September 24

Agent: Canberry Properties, Mathew Kocic 0432 146 159

Or try these:

Narrabundah

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Price guide: $1.6 million+

Auction: 9:30am, September 17

Agent: Belle Property Canberra, Bree Currall 0410 633 247

Narrabundah

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Price guide: $1.35 million+

Auction: 1:30pm. September 24

Agent: home.byholly, Holly Komorowski 0434 973 987

Narrabundah

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Price guide: High $1 million

Auction: 2pm, September 24

Agent: Belle Property Canberra, Louise Harget 0412 997 894