Wazzup Pilipinas!
Every Filipino aspires to own a home. And with the rise of technology, shopping for a home online has now become simpler and easier. There are actually tools homebuyers can use to look up for a property.
Be safe and confident when buying a home. Here are smart tips you should do when shopping for a home online in the Philippines:
1. Assess your needs
Before you embark on your home buying journey, make sure you know what you need, your budget, the property you want, and where should you look. Don’t have a “buyer’s remorse” for failing to sticking to these things. Save yourself from regretting your purchase because you were swayed by catchy sales talk.
2. Do an information check on the developer
Conduct a thorough research on the property developer where you are planning to purchase your home. Find out what their experiences are in the industry, and how well they deliver. It’s also a good thing to check their finances, which are often available in their websites, to see how capable they are in working on a project.
3. Compare property prices
A real estate property is a big purchase. It is therefore essential that you compare prices that you see online to avoid paying for a costly home (when it’s really not!) or getting scammed.
A friend experienced this when she was looking for a home online. She searched for a condominium in one of the most popular marketplace in the country and saw a unit she may be interested to buy. But then she came across the similar property in a more reputable website, and it was priced lower.
4. Check out property reviews
Always take time to read what other homebuyers, and even experts, are saying about a property you’re interested in. In some cases, word of mouth is more valid than what brochure descriptions tell you.
Check the reviews that are from past and current residents, property visitors, and real estate professionals. More or less, their opinions are believable as they leave assessments based on their personal experiences.
But don’t forget to be really critical in your judgment when reading the reviews. Don’t make hasty decisions based on a glowing review or a single negative feedback.
5. Talk to experts
There are many people involved in the home buying process. It is important that you seek their counsel, particularly for things you don’t understand and are unclear. They have more experiences in handling inquires, doing negotiations, and going about the entire process. Just make sure you are dealing with a trustworthy professional.
6. Go to viewings with 360 virtual tours
Property viewing can be a hassle, especially for working professionals who don’t have much time on their hands. ZipMatch, an online property portal in the Philippines, is the first online marketplace that features 360 virtual tours in their project pages that allow you to view the condominium buildings - what’s inside, the amenities, and other exciting preview in the units.
The beauty of doing real estate tripping online is that you can do it anywhere and anytime - at the comfort of your home, when you’re on-the-go, or while waiting for your next meeting at your favorite coffee shop.
7. Familiarize yourself with the property
Make sure to read all information you can gather about the real estate property you are planning to buy. Carefully check the location, design, and other pertinent details to know if it will suit your need.
If you’re purchasing a condominium, know the house rules, especially if you’re bring a pet with you. Vertical residences include common areas and shared spaces. You need to respect other’s rights, the same way you want yourself and your property to be respected.
8. Practice Due Diligence
It is your responsibility as a home buyer, hence the caveat emptor (or buyer beware) saying, to ensure that you have checked all you need to know about the property you are getting before you commit to it.
Buying a home online should be a rewarding experience since it will make the home buying process simpler and easier, and not a task you’ll be afraid to consider. So whether you’re purchasing a condominium or a house and lot, buy safe and buy smart!
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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