The state government has released a new guide to help house hunters determine the liveablility of potential properties.
The guide, titled What to look for when choosing a well-designed house or apartment, provides expert advice on which design principles to consider when looking at properties.
The guide urges house hunters to consider elements such as functionality, sustainability, safety and community, among others.
Western Districts Realty’s Shane Golding said being fully informed about potential properties was of utmost importance.
Mr Golding nominated the structure of a property as the key feature to look out for.
“It’s important to make sure a property is structurally sound so you don’t have any problems once you buy the property,” he said.
Mr Golding also said that buyers should consider the location of properties, in relation to amenities such as parks and schools, especially when considering the any future sales of the property.
Planning Minister Rita Saffioti said the guide would be a valuable resource for those looking to break in to the housing market.
“The home buying process can be overwhelming and people are not always getting what they expect. We want to empower people to make better choices when purchasing or renting a home,” she said.
“Good building design benefits us all and does not cost more if considered early. It is often simple things such as making a house or apartment easier to heat or cool by considering where windows are located or if insulation has been used.”