Can you actually live here?
REMAX Southern Africa has shared a home-viewing guide to help buyers look beyond attractive finishes and determine whether a property genuinely suits their lifestyle.
When searching for your future home, it is easy to be distracted by stylish downlights, a carefully curated kitchen and beautifully presented living rooms. But while a property might look picture-perfect, it may not necessarily be the right fit for you. To help buyers look beyond the finishes and focus on what really matters, REMAX highlights several key factors to consider when viewing a potential home.
“It is easy to be won over by beautiful finishes and carefully staged rooms, but these features can sometimes distract from what will matter most once you move in. Buyers should approach each property viewing with one crucial question in mind: can I actually live here?” says Adrian Goslett, CEO and Regional Director of REMAX Southern Africa.
“Think beyond how the home looks on the day and focus on how well it will support your lifestyle. Consider aspects such as storage, security, outdoor space and maintenance, as well as proximity to schools, work and other amenities. A home might look great, but the right property should not just look nice; it should also work for your everyday life.”
Important spaces
Kitchens and bathrooms remain among the most important spaces for potential buyers, as they are frequently used and can be among the most costly areas of a home to update. When viewing a property, buyers should consider how they would use these spaces and what their specific needs are.
“Perhaps you have little ones who are not old enough to use a shower, or maybe you are someone who prefers to cook at home and requires ample storage and worktop space. These are the things you need to think about when looking at kitchens and bathrooms, as these spaces cannot always be easily or affordably updated,” explains Goslett.
Another consideration that is often overlooked during a viewing is maintenance. Buyers should consider how willing they are to spend their time, energy and money maintaining a property.
Goslett suggests that those who enjoy DIY projects might find an older home appealing, while buyers who prefer a more low-maintenance lifestyle may be better suited to a newer property.
“Thinking realistically about how much upkeep you are prepared to take on can help ensure that the home you fall in love with during a viewing is also one you will enjoy living in long after moving day,” he notes.
Storage galore
Storage is another important consideration. Whether you are a fashion enthusiast with an extensive wardrobe or an avid camper with plenty of equipment, insufficient storage can quickly make a home feel cluttered.
REMAX SA suggests looking beyond bedroom cupboards and considering where you will store linen, luggage, cleaning supplies and other household items.
For many people, security is a top priority when choosing a home. Goslett recommends looking at the surrounding neighbourhood for clues about the level of security residents typically require.
“Are cars parked on the street, or mostly behind gates? Do nearby homes have burglar bars or other visible security measures? Then compare the property you are viewing with those around it and decide if it will need additional security upgrades. You need to decide if it is a neighbourhood where you will feel safe living,” says Goslett.
The final factor Goslett urges buyers to consider is how they prefer to use their outdoor space and garden. Do you enjoy hosting friends around a braai, or do you need a garden where the children can play?
According to Goslett, the right outdoor area is not necessarily the biggest one, but the one buyers can genuinely see themselves using.
“Remember that everyone’s needs are different, so focus on finding a home that works best for you. Make a list of what matters most to you in a home, then reach out to your local REMAX agent, who can help you find a property that complements your needs and lifestyle,” concludes Goslett.
