ANALYSIS
The starting point is to frame the project by defining the purpose, requirements and expectations, and to look at market trends and opportunities.
Is the property for personal use? Is it meant to be rented out? Or a mix of both?
Is it a short or long term investment?
For when do you need it?
What are the must-have?
Purpose and requirements inform the type of property and preferred locations. A plot of land is an option, although a less straightforward path.
ASSESSMENT
Once good alternatives for the What and Where are defined, it is time to consider the practical questions, including legalities, financing, taxes, immigration, etc.
Financing options and legalities are specific to the buyer's situation and the particular location. What is worth considering is the time each procedure requires and their interdependencies. Cultural aspects play a role.
When budget, personal requirements and best options on the different aspects are on the table, its time for trade-offs and to make adjustments to the project.
SEARCH
This stage is about looking closely at the options available, by engaging with agents and developers, as well as by assessing properties possibly onsite or online.
Searching for properties is the "messy middle". Advertisements are not always accurate, at times even misleading, or outdated. Dealing with multiple agents may create confusions.
Getting all the information you need, whether about the property state or about title deeds and other factors affecting properties, may prove difficult. Patience is required, you need to build your knowledge.
EVALUATION
The most promising assets undergo a deeper evaluation. A careful evaluation of the Land development site and the history and reputation of Developers & Builders is key.
If the property is a re-sale, its best to ask a professional to assess its state beyond the fresh paint and quick fixes undertaken in view of the sale. The foundations and the roof may reveal some surprises. How a property has been maintained is telling!
If you opt for a new build, you are not concerned by maintenance but quality. The reputation and standards of the Developers and their Builders are key.
As you define your project and assess its viability, you have to grapple with numerous questions requiring answers from experts in a variety of fields. The signature of the sales' contract initiates an entirely new process, presenting you with a whole new set of inquiries.
This is where our Guidebook comes handy! On top of the practical guidance for your choices, it will answer most initial questions you will need to ask your Developer, helping you focus your interactions with their team on expert advice and quotations.
QUOTATION & SALES CONTRACT
This is when the offer is laid out. A quotation is submitted, outlining the options and features agreed on, at which cost.
The contract is issued after acceptance of the quotation. It is a standard contract for your property which doesn't necessarily mentions the options and agreed features. In your contract you should find the specifications of the house, materials used for your property and high-level what is included in your package.
HOME PLANNING & DESIGN
The customization process starts right after the contract is signed. If you have already put together your requirements, it will be easier to evaluate what you wish to customize and how.
The personalization of your home plans depends on how advanced the construction works are, since a property can be bought "off-plan" at any point in time until completion. Restrictions apply if the property is attached to others, like in an apartment building.