Don’t Be Desperate, but Be Realistic!
Buying a property can feel like a rollercoaster. One week you’re hopeful, the next you’re thinking, “Maybe I should just buy this one… even though it’s not quite right.”
Before you make that leap, here’s a reality check—and some strategies to keep your search both realistic and stress-free.
1. Desperation vs. Realism
When new listings are scarce, it’s easy to feel the pressure to “just buy something.” But settling for a property that doesn’t meet your needs often leads to regret.
The key is knowing if your brief is realistic:
Can you actually afford what you want?
Are there properties that tick your boxes in your price range—or close to it?
If the answer is yes, don’t settle for second best. If the answer is no, it’s time to adjust your brief—that’s a reality check, not desperation.
2. A Simple Test: The 10–20% Rule
One way to check if you’re being realistic is to search for properties 10–20% above your max budget.
If you find lots of “perfect” options above your range but nothing suitable within it, your expectations are too high—you need to compromise on size, specifications, condition, or location.
If the properties above budget are clearly better (bigger, better located, or better condition) than the ones you’re targeting, you’re on the right track—stay patient.
3. Beware of Outliers
Not all sales are reliable benchmarks. A property might sell above market due to competition, or under market if the seller needed a fast sale with no marketing.
Never rely on just one sale to justify your budget or brief. Look for patterns, not one-off events.
4. Have a Clear Search Strategy
When I work with buyers, we set a plan from day one. For example:
Spend 3–4 weeks searching intensively in your core suburbs.
Review the market data: Are suitable properties appearing? How is the market moving?
Decide if it’s time to expand to secondary suburbs or adjust other criteria.
This structured approach keeps you focused and confident, even in a market as wild as Sydney.
Key Takeaway
If you start your property search realistic, you won’t end up desperate.
Know your brief, test it against the market, and stick to a strategy—your dream home (or smart investment) will come along without the panic buy.
If you’d like guidance on setting a realistic brief or a structured search strategy, hit reply—I’d be happy to help.
