4 tips for securing hotly contested property

Property buyers should remember that the offer they're making for a property doesn't only consist of the price, according to entrepreneur and property investor Kirsty Dunphey, who has compiled four tips to help buyers beat their competition and secure a property purchase.

Dunphey says these ideas are worth trying if you want to get your offer accepted and it's not quite at the seller's asking price, or you're in competition with other buyers and want to make your offer stand out from the crowd.

1. Settlement date
Leave the settlement date off your original offer and let the agent know you're happy to settle whenever suits the seller, Dunphey suggests. "If a certain time specifically suits them - quick or long - being flexible may just help you get the deal across the line."

2. Deposit
Putting down a sizeable deposit shows you're serious and capable of completing the contract, Dunphey says. "Often times attaching a cheque for the deposit to your offer is enough of a mental stimulus for the seller," she adds.

3. Conditions
"Where possible make your contract unconditional or subject to as little as possible," Dunphey advises. "Unconditional means that a contract isn't subject to a building inspection, finance, selling another property etc.

"If you can get your building inspection done prior to offering and have your finance approved, this can be a very strong incentive for a seller to sign and put the sold sticker up straight away."

4. Circumstances
Dunphey suggests buyers allow the selling agent to tell the vendor about their circumstances.

"You'd be surprised how many sellers I've dealt with over the years who like to know who is going to own their property after they’ve moved," she says.