Top 10 Mistakes Buyers Make When Purchasing Off-the-Plan and How to Avoid Them

Buying off-the-plan can be one of the most rewarding ways to secure a new home or investment, but only when approached with clarity, research and professional guidance. At Cubecorp Projects, we work closely with buyers at every stage of the process, and over the years we’ve identified the most common off-the-plan mistakes that can impact your experience and long-term outcomes.

Below, we break down the top 10 pitfalls and how to avoid them so you can move into your new property with confidence.

1. Not Understanding the Developer’s Track Record

One of the biggest off-the-plan mistakes buyers make is assuming all developers deliver the same quality.
How to avoid it:

Research completed projects
Look at workmanship, finishes and reviews
Speak to a project specialist who knows the developer’s reputation

A strong developer = a smoother build, higher-quality finishes and fewer settlement issues.

2. Choosing the Wrong Floorplan

Buyers often fall in love with the render, not the layout. A floorplan that looks good on paper may not function well in daily life.
How to avoid it:

Assess natural light, storage and furniture placement
Compare multiple floorplans
Ask Cubecorp Projects for a floorplan consult

A thoughtful floorplan improves livability and resale value.

3. Overlooking Natural Light and Orientation

Orientation dramatically influences comfort and long-term appeal — yet it’s often overlooked.
How to avoid it:

Prioritise north or east-facing apartments
Understand how surrounding buildings may cast shade
Review sun path analyses when available

Sunlight is one of the strongest drivers of apartment desirability.

4. Focusing Only on Price, Not Value

A lower price doesn’t always equal better value.
How to avoid it:

Compare inclusions, location and build quality
Understand long-term capital growth potential
Prioritise quality over the cheapest option

In property, value outperforms price every time.

5. Not Checking Inclusions and Upgrades Carefully

What you see in the display suite may not always match the standard inclusions.
How to avoid it:

Request the full inclusions list
Clarify upgrade costs upfront
Confirm brands of appliances, flooring and joinery

Transparency protects you at settlement.

6. Assuming the Property Will Look Exactly Like the Render

Renders are marketing tools, not technical drawings.
How to avoid it:

Compare renders with detailed floorplans
Understand that colours, textures and landscaping may vary
Ask for material boards or sample finishes

Always verify the real-life finishes.

7. Underestimating Settlement Preparation

Buyers sometimes leave finance until too late, especially in rising markets.
How to avoid it:

Speak to a broker early
Understand valuation expectations
Maintain financial stability leading to settlement

Good preparation reduces stress — and risk.

8. Not Considering Future Infrastructure

An area with strong infrastructure growth will usually outperform the market.
How to avoid it:

Research upcoming Metro stations, town centre upgrades and new precincts
Ask Cubecorp Projects for suburb reports
Look at how these improvements affect capital growth

Infrastructure = long-term demand.

9. Ignoring Ongoing Strata Fees

Premium amenities add lifestyle value, but they also come with strata costs.
How to avoid it:

Review the proposed strata budget early
Understand maintenance fees for pools, gyms, communal spaces
Choose a building that matches your lifestyle needs

In many premium developments, the lifestyle uplift justifies the cost — but it must align with your expectations.

10. Not Seeking Trusted Expert Advice

Off-the-plan purchases involve contracts, timelines, variations and valuation considerations. Navigating this alone can be overwhelming.
How to avoid it:

Work with a knowledgeable project advisor
Ask detailed questions about every step
Lean on specialists who understand the local market and the development

Expert guidance leads to informed decisions — and better outcomes.

Final Thoughts

Buying off-the-plan offers exciting advantages: brand-new finishes, modern layouts, potential price uplift and early access to premium stock. By avoiding these common off-the-plan mistakes, buyers can secure a high-quality home or investment with confidence and clarity.

Cubecorp Projects is committed to guiding buyers with transparency, expertise and personalised support across Sydney’s leading developments.

Ready to Purchase Off-the-Plan?

Our specialists provide:
✔ Floorplan reviews
✔ Project briefings
✔ Suburb insights
✔ VIP access to premium releases

Enquire now to speak with a Cubecorp Projects advisor.