Articles Property Buyer Guide RFO vs Pre-Selling: Is An RFO Unit For You?

RFO vs Pre-Selling: Is An RFO Unit For You?

There are two main condo options to consider: pre-selling or ready-for-use (RFO) units. This article discusses everything you need to know about RFOs.

Purchasing a property for the first time may not be as straightforward as you may believe. At first glance, it may appear that the sole key to purchasing the right home is having enough money to cover the down payment and mortgage, but this is only the beginning. There's a lot more to house buying than that, including analyzing all of your possibilities, calculating the benefits and drawbacks, determining what facilities you want, and much more. But one of the most crucial things to consider before starting your search is whether the property you want to buy is ready-for-occupancy (RFO) or pre-sale.

Black man in a suit shaking a hispanic man's hand over the sale of a house

The Good

Property Already Built.

Many buyers want to acquire a home that they can view firsthand. And it is not an unusual feature to seek out when purchasing a property, particularly if you intend to establish a family. You could wish to begin daydreaming and envisioning how your life would be with your loved ones, and seeing it in person, the precise location and layout of the place offers a vivid image of how your future in the area would be. Of course, it's preferable to gazing at a rendered viewpoint since it gives you the sense of holding something solid in your hands.

Immediate Turnover

The RFO condo will be passed over to you as soon as you've completed all of the paperwork, procedures, and down payment, and you'll be able to move in right away.

Discounts

Developers may provide discounts or promotions for RFO units in some situations, which homeowners can take advantage of while supplies remain. Because of the discounts and promotions available, some homebuyers who were intended to acquire pre-selling apartments wind up acquiring an RFO property instead. RFO units, on the other hand, cost more in the long run, but we'll get to that later.

Modernly designer condo building with white exterior

Transparency

With an RFO device, you receive exactly what you see. Before you spend your hard-earned money on it, you may go see it and check it to get a sense for the property and its facilities. Because you've viewed the unit before moving in, there's no letdown when it comes to condo turnover.

Immediate Occupancy

RFO is the greatest option if you're seeking for a property that you can move into right away. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including being transferred to a different location for employment or other considerations. When people decide to purchase a house, it often means they are not only ready to pay for down payments and mortgages, but also that they are ready to settle down and move into their permanent home. In situations like these, purchasers imagine not just paying for a home that is still being built, but also living in it while paying for it.


The Not So Good

Limited Units

Units that are ready for occupancy are often sold in almost sold-out home and lot or condominium projects. This is due to the fact that the majority of the houses or condo units in the project have already been completed. In certain circumstances, RFO units are forfeited units that were purchased when the product was still in pre-sale and later given up by the original purchaser. Since a result, deciding on the optimum area and location might be difficult, as the number of fully-constructed units available is currently restricted. Some buyers of houses and lots prefer a nice position in a community, such as facing the morning light or the major road.

Mixed modern fully furnished condo unit

Higher Priced Contract Price

Despite the reductions and special offers, RFO apartments are more expensive than ones that have not yet been built. This is due to the fact that the marketplace has grown since it was constructed. Real estate investing is one of the most stable industries, which implies that property values rise over time. This is why pre-selling units are less expensive, because by the time they are ready to be turned over, their price has almost certainly increased by a factor of ten. As a result, RFO property purchases are ideal for personal use rather than investment.

Cash On the Spot or Shorter Payment Period

RFO flats, unlike pre-selling units, need shorter payment terms and occasionally full cash payments so you can move in right away. When asked, some developers can give staggered payments, but they must be for a shorter period of time. So, if you don't have that type of cash on hand yet, you might want to reconsider your options. You won't have much time to put money down for payment. The initial investment is substantial, and if you don't have that money right away, someone else will almost surely buy the unit. RFO properties often need an upfront payment of 5-20 percent of the property's worth.

What To Know Before Buying an RFO

Have a fixed budget in mind when purchasing an RFO condo property so you can determine which condo apartment is best for you and your budget. Consultation with a lawyer before to signing a contract can also provide you an advantage when it comes to legal contracts. Make sure there are no hidden fees in the condo unit before signing the lease. When starting a family, RFO condo units are ideal. However, if you want a more secure living outside of the city, RFO houses and lots are available.

Wide sofa in front of a hanging TV set, furnished condo

Is An RFO Unit For You?

An RFO apartment is the more practical option if you need a roof over your head right away. RFO units are ideal for new families, professionals, and retirees who wish to live independently and stress-free. RFO homes are appropriate for purchasers with adequate money for a condo and financial stability because they are more expensive than pre-selling properties and have more rigid payment conditions. Regardless of your decision, you may reduce the risks associated with purchasing a pre-sale or RFO condo unit by selecting a reputable real estate developer with a track record of producing high-quality homes.