Home Buying Process

Get a snapshot of the 12 steps that will take you from dreaming about a home to living in your dream home.

With a Smartline Adviser by your side, you’ll save a lot of time, stress, legwork and money along the way.

  • Know what you want

    Research the areas you’d like to live, the type of home you’d like to buy and get an idea of your price range.

  • 
Save for your deposit

    The more you can pay for your property upfront, the less you’ll pay in Lenders Insurance and repayments over the years.

  • Meet with a Smartline Adviser

    They will listen to your needs, answer your questions, give you expert advice, find the right loan and arrange everything to settlement.

  • Find out how much you can borrow

    Organise a loan pre-approval so you know how much you can borrow from the lender. Your broker will help you here.

  • Hunt for your dream home

    Check those real estate sections, talk to agents, go to open for inspections, bid at auctions – it’s time to find your home.

  • Seek legal advice before signing anything

    Once you find a home you like, ask the agent for a contract of sale, but don’t sign anything until you’ve shown it to a solicitor or conveyancer.

  • Have inspections carried out

    Arrange for building and pest inspections on your property. Your Smartline broker can recommend someone, if needed.

  • Get your loan approved

    Your broker can professionally package your loan application, liaise with the lender and, once you get approval, send you the loan offer.

  • Make an offer on the home

    If you have time beforehand, it could also be worthwhile getting a professional valuer to value the property.

  • Sign your mortgage documents

    These include standard terms and conditions as well as the legal document giving the lender security over the property.

  • Settle and exchange contracts

    Your lender will liaise with your conveyancer to arrange settlement. The home loan will be ‘drawn down’ and the property will transfer into your ownership.

  • 
Move in to your new home

    Then relax a while – you’ve got a housewarming party to organise!