Whatshot
Buying a 'shabby' property could save you a fortune
Buying a 'shabby' property could save you a fortune
Most homes for sale are scrupulously scrubbed and tidied, and potential buyers will often turn on their heel when taken to view a property that is not in show-house condition.
But those who are ready to look past some superficial negatives may just get to experience the ongoing satisfaction that also comes from gaining an excellent home at a 'bargain' price and then saving on your bond repayments every month because you needed a smaller home loan to buy the property.
It's all about being able to spot substance over style and then about being confident enough to negotiate a substantial discount on the asking price in return for the energy and effort (and money) you will need to expend to bring the property up to standard.
However, before you make any offer to purchase, it would really be worth your while to have the property professionally inspected to check that the structure, plumbing and wiring are good and will not end up costing you more to fix or replace than you are saving on the price.
Assuming they are, though, all that will remain is to pull up your sleeves and start turning your bargain into a clean and tidy home to be proud of, while the savings on your monthly bond repayments mount up.
If you are buying a pre-owned property you will also save a chunk of cash on transfer duty, and if you then obtain your bond through a credible originator, you will be paying the lowest available rate of interest on your loan and save even more money in the longer term.