Buying With First Move
Finding the right home or investment in Adelaide is tough — properties move fast, competition is high, and the best opportunities often never make it online. That’s where we come in.
Selling agent works for seller, whereas buyer’s agent work for buyer.
At First Move, our Buyer’s Agent service gives you the edge. We’ll find and secure the right property for you — including off-market and pre-market listings — while handling inspections, due diligence, and negotiations to make sure you don’t overpay.
Whether you’re a first-home buyer, investor, or purchasing from interstate, we save you time, protect you from mistakes, and deliver results with confidence.
Buying your own home or apartment is an exciting milestone—but it can also feel overwhelming at times. When you partner with First Move, your journey becomes smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable. Our Adelaide-based team guides you through every step, ensuring your experience is positive and your real estate goals are achieved.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or an experienced property investor, we’re here to support you. You can rely on us to handle the complex parts, so you can focus on the exciting process of finding your dream home.
A buyer’s agent plays a crucial role in simplifying the property journey. From researching suitable properties and arranging inspections to negotiating the best deal and handling legal paperwork, our agents act entirely on your behalf. At First Move, our buyer’s agents provide expert market insights, access to off-market opportunities, and a strategic approach to help you not just find a house—but the right home, at the right price. With us, buying property becomes a smoother, smarter, and stress-free experience.
The Ultimate Home Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know
The Must-Haves vs. The Nice-to-Haves
When we work with buyers, we help you clearly define your needs (must-haves), your wants (nice-to-haves), and your unessentials (things that don’t really matter). This ensures your search stays focused, avoids overwhelm, and gets you into the right property faster.
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial and emotional decisions you’ll ever make. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, the process can be both exciting and overwhelming. This comprehensive home buying guide will walk you through every step of the journey, from setting a budget to getting the keys to your new home.
Step 1: Assess Your Financial Readiness
Before you start browsing properties or contacting agents, take a good look at your finances. Ask yourself:
Do I have a stable income?
What is my current debt level?
How much can I afford to pay monthly?
Use mortgage calculators to estimate monthly repayments and determine a realistic budget. Don’t forget to account for extra costs like stamp duty, legal fees, inspection costs, and moving expenses.
Tip: Most lenders prefer borrowers who can provide at least a 20% deposit. However, options like low-deposit loans or first-home buyer grants may be available in your area.
Step 2: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Mortgage pre-approval gives you a clear idea of how much you can borrow and demonstrates to sellers that you’re a serious buyer. This involves submitting financial documents such as:
Pay slips and employment records
Tax returns
Bank statements
Pre-approval is not a guarantee, but it significantly boosts your chances when making an offer.
Step 3: Define Your Property Goals
What are you looking for in a home? Consider these factors:
Location: proximity to work, schools, transport, shops
Type of property: apartment, townhouse, detached house
Size: number of bedrooms and bathrooms
Lifestyle features: garden, garage, outdoor space, etc.
Prioritise your needs versus wants. This clarity will help streamline your property search.
Step 4: Start House Hunting
Now the fun begins. Use online platforms, attend open houses, and connect with local real estate agents. Keep a checklist to compare properties and make notes about:
Overall condition
Price versus value
Local amenities
Potential renovation or maintenance needs
Pro Tip: Don’t fall in love with the first property you see. Visit multiple homes and take your time to evaluate each one thoroughly.
Step 5: Engage a Buyer’s Agent (Optional but Recommended)
A buyer’s agent represents your interests in the purchasing process. They can:
Find properties that meet your criteria (including off-market listings)
Conduct price comparisons and market research
Negotiate the best deal on your behalf
Help with due diligence and paperwork
Hiring a buyer’s agent can save you time, reduce stress, and often help you get a better price.
Step 6: Make an Offer and Negotiate
When you find the right home, you’ll need to make a formal offer. Your agent can help determine a fair market price. Negotiations may include:
Price
Settlement date
Conditions (e.g., subject to finance or inspection)
Be prepared for counteroffers. Stay within your budget and don’t be pressured into overpaying.
Step 7: Conduct Inspections and Final Checks
Before you commit, organise professional inspections:
Building and pest inspections
Electrical and plumbing checks
Strata reports (if buying an apartment)
This is your opportunity to uncover hidden issues. If serious problems are found, you can renegotiate or walk away.
Step 8: Finalise Your Mortgage and Legal Work
Once your offer is accepted:
Submit the signed contract to your mortgage lender
Engage a solicitor or conveyancer to handle legalities
Organise property insurance (often required before settlement)
Your solicitor will perform title searches, review contracts, and liaise with the seller’s legal team to ensure everything is in order.
Step 9: Settlement Day
Settlement is when ownership is legally transferred to you. On this day:
Your lender releases funds to the seller
You receive the property title
Keys are handed over
Celebrate – you’re officially a homeowner!
Step 10: Move In and Settle
After settlement, it’s time to:
Schedule your move
Set up utilities and internet
Update your address
Explore your new neighbourhood
Enjoy turning your house into a home.