Imagine stepping into your brand new home for the first time. The joy and satisfaction of living in a space that’s truly yours is something you have to experience to understand. At G.J. Gardner Homes, Papakura, we’re here to make that dream a reality for you, offering the best quality and price.
But before you dive into homeownership, let’s talk about some common mistakes first-time buyers make. We want to help you avoid these pitfalls so you can enjoy your journey to owning a home and ultimately make the best choice for you.
1. Skipping Mortgage Pre-Approval
Before you start house hunting, get pre-approved for a mortgage. It helps you understand your budget and shows sellers you’re serious. Without it, you might fall for a home that’s out of reach or miss out on a great deal. You can get a pre-approval for free from most banks & brokers. They can usually give you an indication of your budget with a quick phone call, then help you work through the pre-approval process.
2. Overlooking the Neighborhood
The location is as important as the home. Check the neighborhood for schools, amenities, and transport. Visit at different times to get a real feel for the area. Sometimes moving a little further away can give you a better home for your budget. Don’t be afraid to move neighborhoods to get the home you want. Look for growth areas. Buying a home in an area that is still developing often has greater potential for future capital gains.
3. Forgetting Extra Costs
It’s not just about the house price. Remember to budget for lawyers fees, insurance and maintenance. These can add up, so plan ahead to avoid surprises. Buying a brand new home can save you thousands on renovations and repairs after you move in.
4. Rushing or Waiting Too Long
Rushing can lead to regrets. Be patient, research thoroughly so that you choose the right home. Alternatively, don’t wait too long as there are great deals available now but house prices will likely rise over time. Taking too long to decide might cost you!
5. Letting Emotions Rule
Buying a home is emotional, but don’t let feelings cloud your judgment. Stay focused on your needs, budget, and long-term goals to make a wise decision. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice from experts who are familiar with the property market and the buying process.
6. Thinking You Can’t Build New
Many people think it’s unobtainable to build a new home for their first home. In many cases this is not true and can offer better value for money. New homes have huge benefits over second-hand homes like better insulation, less maintenance & 10 year warranties. Plus you can often choose your design and colour schemes. A new home is usually a safer long term investment and provides good resale value.
At G.J. Gardner Homes, we offer a range of house and land packages to suit every need and budget. From beautiful standalone homes in Hunua Views & Auranga Rise to waterfront living in Karaka, we have something for everyone.
Interest rates dropped again in April, making now a great time to explore your financing options. We work with experts who can help you get your finance sorted for free.
Let us help you avoid these common mistakes and guide you toward your dream home. Book in your free consultation with Matt at one of our show homes and let us help you on your journey to home ownership.
Book your free first home consultation here and begin your journey to home ownership today!
Why Choose G.J. Gardner Homes Papakura to Build Your Home?
- We’ve been building homes for over 25 years and are NZ’s most trusted builder.
- We’ve completed every home we’ve started—over 24,000!
- Choose from a range of designs or create a unique one for you.
- Our buying power means quality materials for less, with a 10-year Master Build Guarantee.
- We have great local knowledge and friendly service.
- Set completion times give you certainty.
- Opt for a fixed price contract for peace of mind.
- Choose turnkey finance to start with just a 10% deposit.
