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Women on an even playing field in the property game
These days, not only are single women buying their own homes to the tune of millions, but in many cases, a second or third investment property as well. The 30-something brunette that saunters into your show day may not be doing the ground work while hubby plays golf, and don't presume she's looking for something for daddy to buy her either. Gone are the days when only men buy homes and women wait around to decorate them.
© Günter Menzl - Fotolia.co.za
"Of course single women buy their own homes today"
"Assume nothing about your buyers," says Adrienne Hersch of Adrienne Hersch Properties. After 23 years of experience in the property market, Hersch has seen the trends and the nuances change. She sums it up with a matter of fact confidence, "Of course single women buy their own homes today. These women are career-driven, earning well and independent."
Today it is also young couples who are looking to buy their first home together as opposed to the groom looking to carry his unsuspecting bride over the threshold of their brand new front door that she knew nothing about. Hersch echoes this trend with anecdotes of a newly married couple who sincerely consider one another in the buying process to the point of putting the home in both their names.
Men are more involved than ever in the interior look and feel
The narrative has changed. Women are just as involved in the process of finding, securing and protecting the family home as men, and men are more involved than ever in the interior look and feel as they are with raising their children. After all, two people are planning to live a life there together. It is a common sense conclusion, which is why if you're playing the property game, it's vital to arm yourself with the facts, trends and correct approach to all the people with whom you engage.
Ask questions
Hersch advises that all agents ask questions. She has heard many women complain about banks and agents who assume that as a woman, you must be in a relationship if you are in the financial position to buy a home. "Property is about people. If you're in the business, then know that you're selling homes to people, and therefore it's vital to approach prospective buyers or sellers with sensitivity." She recommends establishing the basics before trying to sell them anything, "Ask the questions: where; what; who; how; and when?"
Any advice for first-time buyers? Hersch encourages first-time home buyers, men and women, to educate themselves too, before purchasing a home. "Don't be afraid to ask questions. Ask family, friends and your agents. Ask to see an example of an offer to purchase. Find a consultant at the bank to assist with your financial concerns. Buying a home is a serious investment and you owe it to yourself to educate yourself from the get go."
