After many days, maybe even weeks of searching, you come across a property that appeals to you more than the rest. Before rushing to make an offers, follow your check-list to make sure that you do not get left with a hole in your pocket from spending thousands of rands on unforeseen urgent repairs. Then, once you are absolutely certain that this is the home for you, go ahead and make an offer!

Making that offer!

An offer to purchase is the document that you complete when making an offer on a property. If this offer is accepted by the seller it will become a legal and binding contract – if it is not accepted by the seller it may become null and void.

The estate agent will supply the offer to purchase and help you complete it. Ask the agent to explain in detail this contract to you. It is human nature to assume that a contract says what we expect it to say, but often there is fine print  or clauses in the contract that we were initially unaware of. You must be 100% certain that this is the home for you – once the offer to purchase is signed and sealed there is no going back.  If you are unsure of anything at this stage – ask the agent or get expert advice from a lawyer or mentor.

The offer to purchase will include:

It is important to read through what you are signing and ask the agent to make any changes that you feel are necessary. The occupation date might not suit you as you are renting and your lease will end 2 weeks before you can move into your new home. Discuss all these scenorios with your agent and only sign once you are happy.

An agent cannot refuse to take your offer even if he thinks the amount is very low. The agent is then obliged to take this offer to the seller and get him to either accept or reject – the seller will normally have a few days to consider this offer.

Once this offer is signed by the seller and the buyer, the deal is ready to be processed formally by the appointed lawyers.

Click here for guide to understanding the sale agreement.