Families across New Zealand ventured to the beach this summer. They got their dose of sun, sand and salt water. Folks enjoyed the slow and relaxing life, getting their toes wet, licking up the ice cream before it dripped down their fingers, and enjoying life with their family.
The summer holidays have finished, and many people have got back into their work routine. But are you left wondering whether a bach is right for you?
Before you make that leap and get your hopes up that next summer you will be spending it with your family in your own bach, LJ Hooker Waihi Beach’s Gary Alway says you need to do your homework, and make sure your finances are in order.
The market is moving quickly, and there is a lot of interest in holiday homes that you need to be sure you are ready to invest and you have the money ready to go.
“Don’t wait for properties to make the internet,” Alway suggests. “If you are serious, we encourage you to meet an agent. Then we can sit down with you, get a real handle on what you want – such as the right location, number of rooms, etc. – and then we can take you for a drive around the beach so you can get a feel for the different locations and pricing.”
Going into an office will give you the chance to see newly listed properties before they reach the general market.
“If you wait for a property to reach the internet, chances are our personal database is already in full flight, and clients are already going through the property – there will be people who have a head start on you,” Alway says.
Unlike your family home, Alway says you need to look at a property as a beach house with potential.
“Beach houses have often been in families for generations and they have had bits and bobs added to it over the years,” he says. “You need to remember it isn’t your permanent home and it won’t be 100 percent perfect. If you are looking for perfection, you may well be waiting for a very long time.”
You can also look at your first bach as a steppingstone.
“Your first beach house could also be a first step onto the beach, and not your forever beach house.”
Once you have found your ideal bach, every bit of leverage you can create will help sweeten the negotiation process, and make sure you can put forward the cleanest offer.
“Talking to LOCAL real estate people is key,” Alway says. “Those who know the area well are the ones who can explain all the different locations around the beach.
“Don’t wait! If you are serious you need to act as soon as you are notified the property is on the market.”
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