Shortlist 360: See What We See
Step 3 is where your shortlist from Step 2 starts to become actionable. This stage transforms your strong on-paper options into properties you can genuinely consider purchasing. For expats, this step is the most critical and intensive, and it often requires a trusted partner or agent to attend inspections on your behalf. However, by understanding the framework and process, you can confidently apply these techniques yourself and make fully informed decisions remotely.
The goal of Shortlist 360 is to review each property in three rounds of due diligence, pre-inspection, inspection, and pre-offer investigation, so you know exactly what you’re buying before committing.
Step 1. Pre-Inspection Research
Before anyone steps inside a property, the first step is to review it in detail online. This involves examining the listing photos, floor plans, and any video or drone content. I also study the street and neighbourhood using satellite imagery and virtual maps, comparing these to subdivision plans.
This approach often highlights issues immediately, such as neighbouring developments, access concerns, or property layout problems. Pre-inspection research is a time-saving step that can remove unsuitable options early, ensuring you focus only on properties that meet your brief.
🎥 Watch the training video: Pre-Inspection Property Research from Afar
Step 2. Contract of Sale & Vendor Statement Review
Once a property passes the pre-inspection stage, I review the Contract of Sale and Vendor Statement. This step is essential for identifying red flags before investing more time in the property.
Understanding how to read contracts and vendor statements allows you to spot potential risks, obligations, or hidden costs. I’ve prepared a detailed video showing the top five red flags to watch for in a contract, which often eliminate properties that could cause problems down the line. Doing this first also allows you to cross-reference details from subdivision plans and street imagery, revealing issues that may not be obvious in photos alone.
🎥 Watch the video: Contract Review: Top 5 Red Flags
Step 3. Scheduling the Inspection
After the property passes the pre-inspection and contract review, it’s time to schedule the inspection. Speed is critical - high-quality properties can sell in hours, and expats relying on friends or family often miss out.
This is one of the most powerful reasons to work with a Buyer Agent: we can respond instantly. For those managing inspections remotely, clear instructions and preparation are essential to avoid missing anything during the walkthrough.
Step 4. Conducting a Remote Inspection
If you cannot attend the inspection yourself, the walkthrough must be recorded. This allows you to pause, review, and assess at your own pace, unlike live FaceTime calls.
During the walkthrough, you need to capture every room, appliance, and outdoor space. Ask questions about recent maintenance, renovations, or known issues, and make sure the person attending understands your Step 1 requirements
🎥 Watch the training video: How to Record a Property Inspection
📞 Need support? Book a no-obligation call to discuss any property or step in the process. I’m always happy to help expats confidently buy from overseas.
Step 5. Building Inspection
The building inspection is an opportunity to thoroughly examine the property’s physical condition. Attending alongside the building inspector, if possible, allows you to spend extended time testing appliances, checking windows, doors, vents, heating and cooling systems, and ensuring the overall condition aligns with expectations.
While building inspectors focus on structural issues, it’s vital to document everything else, including cosmetic or operational items. These records are invaluable for post-purchase reference, repairs, or disputes.
Step 6. Legal Review
A licensed conveyancer or lawyer reviews the contract and vendor statement to ensure transparency, fairness, and compliance. They verify that all obligations, covenants, and disclosures are clear, protecting you from legal issues once you enter a contract.
This step is essential for expats buying remotely, as it ensures you fully understand your rights and obligations before committing.
Step 7. Pre-Offer Investigation
Before negotiating, all gathered information must be reviewed: inspection videos, building reports, and legal notes. At this stage, you evaluate whether the property aligns with your Step 1 brief and Step 2 suburb shortlist.
The pre-offer investigation also considers the sale method, private sale, off-market, auction, or expression of interest, which can impact timing and strategy. Due diligence steps may not happen sequentially, and flexibility is key.
Step 8. Negotiation & Decision Making
With all due diligence complete, you’re ready to negotiate and decide. It’s crucial to remain objective and avoid emotional decision-making, as real estate agents will test your commitment to maximize the price.
You now have the insights to make confident offers, guided by professional-grade research, inspection records, and legal advice. At this stage, the Shortlist 360 process ensures that you have peace of mind, knowing your remote purchase is based on thorough evaluation and professional standards.