Buying a home with a partner: How to navigate the process

Buying a home is a momentous and thrilling occasion in life, and purchasing property with a partner only adds to the excitement. With the right preparations in place, you can ensure that this journey is a smooth and enjoyable experience that results in a home that brings you and your partner joy for many years to come.

To help you make the most of this exciting time, let's explore the key considerations and steps that will allow you to navigate the home-buying process with ease.

• Define your financial goals and responsibilities

Before you start looking for a home, it is critical to have a clear understanding of your financial goals and responsibilities. This includes discussing your budget, the type of property you want to buy, and how you plan to split the costs. You should also consider how much you are willing to spend on a down payment and any other related expenses, such as closing costs, home insurance, and maintenance costs.

It is also essential to discuss your credit history, as this will impact your ability to secure a home loan. You should also consider your individual financial goals and whether you plan to stay for a long time or if you are hoping to sell your home in the near future.

• Create a joint budget

Once you have an understanding of your financial goals and responsibilities, you should create a joint budget that takes into account your combined income and expenses. This will help you determine how much you can afford to spend on a home and will also ensure that you are on the same page when it comes to financial planning. 

• Get pre-approved for a home loan

Getting pre-approved for a home loan is an important step in the home-buying process. This will give you a clear idea of the amount of money you can borrow and the type of loan that is best for your situation. When applying for a home loan with a partner, you will need to provide your combined financial information, including your credit scores, income, and assets.

It is also a good idea to shop around for the best home loan rates and terms. You can do this by comparing rates from multiple lenders, including banks, and online brokers such as ooba.

• Start your home search

Once you have a clear understanding of your financial situation and have been pre-approved for a home loan, it is time to start your home search. When looking for a home with a partner, it is important to take your individual needs and preferences into consideration. This may include factors such as location, size, and type of property, as well as the overall condition of the home.

When viewing properties, it is a good idea to take notes and discuss your thoughts with your partner to ensure that you are both on the same page. You should also be prepared to compromise, as it is unlikely that you will find a property that meets all of your criteria.

• Make an offer and close the deal

Once you have found a property that you both like, it is time to make an offer. This process can be complex, and it is recommended that you work with a property practitioner who has experience working with home buyers. They can help you negotiate the terms of the sale and ensure that all the necessary paperwork is completed accurately and on time.

When closing the deal, you will need to sign a purchase agreement that outlines the terms of the sale, including the purchase price, closing date, and any contingencies. You should also have a clear understanding of any additional expenses, such as closing costs, home inspections, and title insurance.

• Protect your investment

To ensure the longevity of your home-buying experience, consider creating a co-ownership agreement. This document outlines the terms of your ownership and can help to avoid any conflicts in the future. This agreement should include details such as the percentage of ownership, responsibilities for mortgage payments, and what will happen in the event that one partner wants to sell their share of the property. Having this agreement in place will provide peace of mind and protection for your investment. 

Buying a home with a partner is a significant and exciting step in life. However, it is essential to approach the process with caution and proper planning. Get in touch with Seeff Hillcrest & Kloof today to find the perfect property for you and your partner.