I completely understand the falling in love part. We visited a house with a bay window and a lemon tree. 45 minutes later we bought it whilst I was having pre-labour contractions and knowing I was being induced on Monday!

You can buy a house without a mortgage approved. It just needs to be approved a few weeks prior to the settlement. I'd recommend a long settlement in your situation (at least 90 days) to sort out your mortgage.

We just got a mortgage with NAB after being with Credit Union Australia for our other mortgages. The NAB staff were really great and their package was excellent.

Archicentre are all that you need. They are the main ones in Victoria.

We've used the same solicitor to sell and buy a few places. They are in Moonee Ponds so if that's convenient let me know and I'll PM you the details.

Mortgage insurance is a reality for many people. We needed it for our first mortgage as we borrowed 98% of the property value. It's annoying but a fact of life. Most banks will loan you the amount for the mortgage insurance too! Very convenient for them!!

I would do the inspections before you talk money or contracts. That way if it's a dud you haven't wasted your time.

If you decide you want it then put in an offer. It depends if it's been for sale for a long time, how many others are interested, if it's going to auction etc etc. There are lots of scenarios from this point but it basically depends on how much the vendor wants to sell.

Good luck!