So! You’re about to embark in what most Pinoys dream about – buying your first home! Now, put down that checkbook because there is something every home buyer has to do before they push thru with the transaction: the ocular inspection, or simply put – what we call in the Philippines “tripping.”

Trivia: did you know 49% of homeowners experience a problem with the houses they’ve bought simply because they didn’t spend enough time researching or checking out the property?

But you won’t be part of the 49% now will you? Yes you won’t because here are some tips we encourage you to follow when making your first tripping/viewing schedule to your possible (dream) house:

Do a background research on the property – including the area surrounding it. This will save you time from viewing a property that won’t address your requirements.

Bring a camera and take photos of the houses, carefully taking a close-up shot of the house number so you can recall easier what house you visited.

Visit during the daytime, as problems will be better seen that way.
Don't be afraid to ask - about the fixtures, fittings, association due, noise level, water supply, restrictions, etc. What you don't know can and may hurt you. This is your money we're talking about.

Brokers are only human - do not expect them to show you all the houses you want in a short span of time. They are also not public servants and only earn commission. Put yourself in their shoes, and keep your expectations realistic. Also, be open with your broker if they offer free transportation or would rather meet up somewhere in between.

Remember, what you do to others will come back to either haunt you or bless you.

Bring a check book with you – especially if you’re really keen on getting the property, as most brokers or home sellers prefer that you make a deposit to reserve the property. Although this is not always the case, as most first time buyer visit a single property several times.

Be on time! Let’s get rid of the Filipino habit of tardiness. It won’t do you any good and can possible turn off a seller. Remember it’s not just a buyer’s market, it’s also a seller’s market.

Don’t ask for the owner or tenant’s contact details. This is being totally rude to your broker or agent. If the owner offers, politely accept but return it to your broker/agent. This will ensure the trust and confidence between the 2 parties.

The more information you have about the house, the better. Spend as much time as you want exploring & poking around the house (as long as you have permission to do so!). Remember, "Buy in haste, repent at leisure."

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