Join agents and sister duo Rachel and Rosey and they reflect on their different journeys in buying their own property and the lessons they’ve learnt.
7 Insider Lessons from Bricks Mortar and Mayhem:
Buying property can be thrilling, stressful, and downright confusing, even for the pros. In the Bricks, Mortar & Mayhem podcast, Terra Caribbean’s own sister-agent duo Rachel and Rosey switched roles and became the buyers of their own properties. Their personal experiences uncovered valuable lessons for anyone ready to take the plunge into property ownership.
Here are 7 key takeaways from their real-life journeys:
1. Trust Your Agent’s Instincts
Even the most experienced buyers can overlook a gem. Rachel admitted she kept dismissing a listing Rosey sent her until Rosey insisted she see it in person, and turned out to be the one!Moral of the story? If your agent keeps recommending a property, give it a second look. They might see something you can’t.
2. Get Pre-Approved Early and Shop Around
Before you fall in love with a property, or even begin seriously looking, get pre-approved. Both our agents did, and they each went to multiple banks to compare rates and terms. The differences between institutions were significant, so don’t settle for the first offer. The right bank, and mortgage officer can make a world of difference.
3. Choose the Right Team: Agent, Attorney, and Banker
A smooth purchase depends on the right support. Rachel and Rosey stressed the importance of having a responsive and reliable mortgage officer, an attorney who communicates clearly, and an agent who advocates for your best interest. Your dream team matters.
4. Stay Actively Involved in the Process
This isn’t the time to go hands-off. Regular follow-ups with your attorney, bank, and agent can keep your transaction on track. Delays often stem from small issues that could be easily resolved with a weekly check-in.
5. Budget Beyond the Purchase Price
Rosey planned her investment carefully, including a financial buffer in her mortgage account in case of vacancies or unexpected costs. She recommends all buyers factor in a few months of expenses post-purchase, just in case. Your property should bring peace of mind, not financial stress.
6. Renovations Will Test You, So Be Prepared
Rachel’s renovation journey? Let’s just say it didn’t go exactly to plan. What was meant to be a quick 2-month job stretched out into several. The lesson: get detailed quotes, hire professionals you trust, and expect the unexpected. And yes, renovations always take longer than promised.
7. If It’s Not Right, Speak Up
When you’re investing in a home or renovation, don’t settle for subpar work. Rachel shared a powerful reminder: from mentor and Terra COOHayden Hutton “A contractor will give you the quality you accept.” If something feels off, raise it early. You’ll see it every day—so make sure it’s right.
Final Thought: Every Journey is Unique
Whether you’re buying a family home or investing in a rental, each property journey will come with its own set of surprises. But as Rachel and Rosey prove, with the right planning, mindset, and support team, the result is more than worth the mayhem.
