Reducing stress during property buying

While an exciting chapter in one’s life, buying a home can also be one of life’s most stressful times, says Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of South Africa. “Even though it may mean moving to a bigger and better property, the event of moving homes, while happy, can still be stressful as it is a disruption to a person’s routine. Any life event that affects a person’s routine, such as moving an entire family, can be a cause for stress,” says Goslett. “Packing up and unpacking belongings, finding a new property, dealing with sellers, applying for finance - all of these aspects can add to the stress. One of the key ways to effectively manage stress during the process and to reduce anxiety is proper preparation.”

Goslett provides a few tips to help buyers prepare and reduce their stress levels when purchasing a property:

Select the right agent

Working with an experienced and reputable real estate professional who can help provide guidance through the process will assist to alleviate some of the stress. “As a property professional who deals with the home sale process on a daily basis, an agent can be a highly valuable source of information. Having an experienced agent on hand to answer questions and assist deal with the paperwork can take a lot of pressure off,” says Goslett.

Create a list of wants and needs

Before going out and looking at properties, a prospective homebuyer should sit down and make a list of wants and needs of the features they are looking for in a home. “Buyers who have a clear idea about what they want will save time as they will have narrowed down their options. If buyers know what they are looking for beforehand, they will eliminate being put on the spot, which will also help to reduce anxiety,” says Goslett. 

Get pre-approval

Goslett says that rather than finding the right home and then waiting to see whether or not home loan finance is approved, buyers should go to a bank or bond origination company such as BetterLife Home Loans and request a pre-approval. “Pre-approval allows the buyer to shop for homes within their budget, while eliminating the waiting periods or any unpleasant surprises from lenders,” Goslett adds.

Keep things in perspective

When things seem like they are getting too stressful, it is important to try and look at the situation in perspective.  “Although moving to another home is a life altering experience, it is also an exciting adventure. It is important to find positive aspects about the experience,” says Goslett.   

Focus on something else

Sometimes it is best to take a step back and have a break. “Indulge in something that has nothing to do with the home sale process and requires undivided attention, such as an art class or yoga lesson. This will reduce stress by refreshing the mind and helping to bring about a new perspective on the situation,” says Goslett. 

Try not to take it personally

There will be sellers who reject a perfectly good offer. While it might be difficult to be completely unaffected, it is best not to take it personally and to understand that they have their reasons. 

“Although it might take some time to get established in a new home, it is best to try and get into a routine as soon as possible, especially if children are involved. It won’t be long before all the stress of moving is a thing of the past and the family is enjoying the benefits of their new home,” Goslett concludes.