BUYING A HOME

Most properties are sold through real estate agents, who advertise prolifically and are quite easy to locate.

Most properties are open for inspection by the general public prior to sale and you do not need to be registered with a real estate agent to attend. These inspections are widely advertised in local papers, property magazines and at real estate agents' offices.

Many homes are sold at auction. It is important to obtain all relevant documentation from the selling agent and have your solicitor look over the documents for you before the day of the auction as you will generally have to sign a Contract for Sale on the day.

The auctioneer will open the bidding at a given rate, which is generally made known prior to auction. Buyers may engage an agent to bid on their behalf; however it is illegal for an owner to have someone in the crowd making bids on their behalf.

Owners are under no obligation to accept a bid and have the right to withdraw the property from the market.