What to ask agents when being taken through a display suite online

Australians have been staying at home on and off during the intermittent lockdowns and for homebuyers, this means a delay, sometime indefinitely, in purchasing property.

However, data in both the first Melbourne lockdown and beyond shows that online visits and enquiries of property listings have surged by over 50%.

Here at Urban, we have compiled a list of questions so prospective buyers can get a handle on what they should be asking agents during online inspections. This is useful both during lockdown and for properties available for purchase off-the-plan, or available across state or national borders when in-person inspection may not be possible.

For a more in-depth guide on off-the-plan buying check out our expert guide.

1. What's the cost per square metre for each floorplan configuration? (make a note of this and compare to other properties you virtually view)

This is vital information to compare the value of the property to others in the area as well as the suburb/region you are looking to buy in. It is important to make sure you are buying a property that suits your needs and has room to grow, one marker of such potential is if the $/psqm is below median for the area, however it isn't the be all end all

2. When is construction slated to start/be completed?

Construction projections are important information as it will have an effect on how long you may rent or choose to settle on your current property. Ensure the builder/construction firm is reliable and has a good reputation to reduce the likelihood of delay. 

Keep in mind that some delays may occur if a coronavirus outbreak occurs. 

3. Which items within the display are included and which are optional upgrades?

Straightforward enough, make sure you don't get blindsided and chuck out your old washer/dryer just because the display suite has one, double check with the agent to see what is supplied by the developer as some offer white-goods packages and optional deals.

4. What customisation option do you have available?

Depending on the design firm and developer, some firms offer a higher degree of customisation, this tends to increase linearly with price as the more expensive the property is, the more customisable it generally is. Either way you should ask as many developments offer at minimum a choice in colour pallete and fittings 

5. What's the ceiling height? (compare this to your own ceilings at home)

While this many not mean as much to someone who is 150 cm tall, for prospective basketball players... and everyone else, it's worth knowing ceiling height as this can impact whether the home feels claustrophobic or spacious and airy regardless of your personal height.

6. Which aspect does the particular apartment I'm considering buying face? (take note of where the sun is throughout the day in your own home)

This is important for natural light purposes, as well as potential views as some apartments will offer a better aspect than others.

7. Who built the display suite and will they be constructing the actual apartments/townhomes?

A vital point of note is the builder, don't misunderstand something because of an unrealistic display suite.

8. If taking a virtual tour, ask the agent to zoom in on details so you can see the build quality

If the builder doesn't put their best foot forward with the display suite, it is worth asking the agent about it and whether other properties you have looked at demonstrate better build quality or detailing.