Abel Mngadi, Head of New Business and Sales at FNB Housing Finance there are a few non-negotiables when considering a neighbourhood and buyers should be strict with themselves and make sure the area fits their needs.
"Buyers should look at access to the public transport system, be it bus or taxi along with the overall safety of the suburb.
"Proximity to local amenities, your work or your children's schools is important and is almost as important as the as the potential for value growth your home in the area," says Mngadi.
"It is pointless searching an entire city, as it will ultimately be frustrating and as waste of time, as there may be many houses that suit your affordability levels within a very wide range," says Mngadi. Rather choose a few areas that you are comfortable with that meet most of your most important needs. Then stick to those areas."
He goes on to say that one a home buyer has chosen a few areas, do as much research as possible until you are satisfied that they are suitable.
Safety is always important aspect and various crime statistics should be accessed from the police and from out organisations like E-blockwatch for that particular area.
"Residents associations are also a very good source of information," says Mngadi. "Many neighbourhoods have homeowners associations which will be able to tell you the latest crime incidents in the areas, as well as about any planned building or developments."
Understanding the the neighbourhood plans is important as you may not want to buy in an area that is earmarked as a thoroughfare or that there are plans to but a shopping centre and amenities that may increase the value of your home.
Historical property values are a good indication of the future investment into a neighbourhood, there are many property guides online if you search that will give you the growth over a certain period.
In some instances you can buy a report, which will give you the details the actual sales price rather than the asking price.
Visit the area at different times of the day to see whether traffic, noise or access is difficult. This applies particularly to weekday peak times.
"Thorough research answers many of these questions," says Mngadi.
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