What to Look for When Buying an Apartment: A Developer’s Checklist
- Adam Bahrami
- 5 days ago
- 5 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Purchasing an apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, whether it’s your very first home, a strategic investment property, or a step toward downsizing. The process can be both exciting and overwhelming—particularly if you're unsure of what to look for. With countless listings, sales agents, floorplans, and glossy brochures, how do you truly know if you're making the right decision?
At OwnerDeveloper, we’ve distilled years of development and real estate experience into one clear, easy-to-follow resource: a detailed checklist to guide your apartment buying journey. This developer-backed guide is designed to help you evaluate each property objectively and avoid the common pitfalls that can lead to regret or financial strain down the line.
Want to make a confident purchase backed by professional insights? Download our free eBook now to access the full checklist and bonus tools for due diligence, builder selection, and feasibility.
1. Location: The Foundation of Long-Term Value
The old saying 'location, location, location' still rings true—and for good reason. The location of your apartment is the single most important factor affecting liveability, lifestyle, and long-term capital growth.
Key considerations:
Is the apartment within walking distance to public transport such as trains, buses, or light rail?
Are there nearby essentials such as supermarkets, healthcare, schools, cafes, and green spaces?
What infrastructure is planned for the area in the next 5 to 10 years (e.g. new stations, shopping centres, road upgrades)?
Properties located in high-growth, well-connected, and amenity-rich areas tend to hold or increase their value over time, offering better returns whether you're buying to live in or invest.
2. Developer Reputation & Construction Quality
A beautiful brochure doesn’t guarantee a well-built apartment. Investigating the developer and builder behind the project is essential.
What to investigate:
Research the Developer: Start by Googling the developer and investigating their track record. Have they successfully delivered similar projects in the past? Look into their portfolio and reputation within the industry.
Inspect Previous Projects: Visit other buildings completed by the same developer or builder. Pay attention to the quality of construction—are there signs of premature wear and tear, subpar finishes, or poorly maintained common areas?
Check Resident Feedback: Look for reviews from past purchasers and tenants. Online platforms, property forums, and Google reviews can be a goldmine for understanding the lived experience in developments by the same team.
Assess Materials and Finishes: Consider the quality of materials and workmanship in the property you're considering. Will the fixtures, flooring, and appliances stand the test of time, or are they likely to need replacing sooner than expected?
Verify Licensing and Accreditation: Ensure the developer and builder are properly licensed and accredited. You can conduct a licence check through the relevant building authority in your state to confirm their legal standing and any disciplinary history.
Speak to the Strata or Building Manager (if possible): Ask about any recurring maintenance issues, disputes, or budget shortfalls in the building’s sinking fund. This can reveal a lot about long-term build quality and management.
Look for Legal or Compliance Issues: Search for any past litigation, building defects, or disputes involving the developer, builder, or strata plan.
Buying from a trusted, experienced developer dramatically reduces the likelihood of future building defects, unexpected repairs, or disputes.
3. Apartment Layout, Design & Functionality
Beyond the aesthetics, a good apartment layout needs to function efficiently in day-to-day life.
Ask yourself:
Is the layout open and practical, or does it have awkward dead zones or wasted space?
Is there ample built-in storage, a separate laundry space, and a functional kitchen setup?
Are bedrooms large enough to accommodate queen or king-sized beds and natural light?
Do the windows and balcony face a pleasant aspect with sunlight and airflow?
Pay attention to small but crucial details such as noise insulation, ventilation, ceiling height, and placement of power points. These factors will impact your comfort and resale value in the future.
4. Strata Fees, Financials & By-Laws
Strata fees are ongoing costs paid by all apartment owners to cover the maintenance and running of shared spaces and services. Understanding them is vital before signing on the dotted line.
Make sure to:
Request the latest strata report, including meeting minutes, budget forecasts, and details of any disputes
Find out if there is a healthy sinking fund for future building repairs or upgrades
Understand what the current levies cover (e.g. cleaning, insurance, lift maintenance, pool, garden care)
Review the building’s by-laws. Are pets allowed? What are the renovation rules? Is short-term letting like Airbnb restricted?
Poor strata management or underfunded financials can lead to surprise levies and ongoing frustrations.
5. Security, Safety & Access
A well-secured building offers more than just peace of mind—it also helps with resale appeal and insurance costs.
Key features to look for:
Controlled access to the building (e.g. swipe cards, security cameras, intercoms)
Well-lit common areas, secure car parking, and visitor access management
Up-to-date fire safety compliance and visible maintenance of common areas
Clean, operational lifts and hallways with no damage, mould, or odour
A poorly maintained building can indicate weak strata leadership and create risk for new buyers.
6. Growth Potential & Investment Return
Even if you’re buying to live in the apartment, it’s wise to treat the purchase as an investment.
Evaluate the property’s potential by:
Reviewing local property price trends, historical capital growth, and upcoming zoning changes
Looking into population demographics and whether rental demand is strong in the area
Identifying whether the building appeals to a wide market—students, young professionals, retirees, or families
Properties that appeal to multiple buyer segments are easier to sell or lease in the future, giving you flexibility and financial security.
7. Legal, Title & Structural Due Diligence
Before you commit, always conduct a thorough legal and structural review of the property.
This includes:
Confirming clear title and no encumbrances or easements on the property
Ordering a building and pest inspection to check for hidden damage, water leaks, or poor workmanship
Reviewing strata records for legal disputes, repair history, or major known defects
Understanding warranties on appliances, fixtures, and the building structure (especially in new apartments)
A property lawyer or conveyancer is your best ally in avoiding costly legal and compliance issues.
8. Practical Living Features
Practical features often get overlooked in favour of glossy kitchens and designer fittings, but they matter deeply in day-to-day living.
Check for:
The number and location of secure parking spaces
Waste disposal solutions—does the building have chutes, collection rooms, or bins on each level?
Access to storage cages, bike racks, or EV charging stations
Quality of balcony space and views
Airflow, odour levels, and external noise exposure
A comfortable apartment blends style with convenience—and that’s what makes it truly livable.
BONUS: Download the Complete Checklist
Don’t risk making one of life’s biggest purchases without expert guidance.
Inside, you’ll find:
A complete step-by-step buying guide
Insights on due diligence, legal risks, and planning approvals
Tools to assess feasibility and builder credibility
Tips from real developers with $400M+ in completed projects
Final Thoughts
An apartment isn’t just a place to live—it’s a long-term investment in your future.
Our checklist is based on decades of real-world experience, industry best practices, and hundreds of successfully delivered homes.
Use this guide as your personal framework for assessing apartments thoroughly, asking the right questions, and setting yourself up for financial success.
At OwnerDeveloper, we’re here to help you buy smarter and build better. Speak to our property specialists for tailored advice or explore our blog for more property development insights.