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SECRETS TO FINDING THE RIGHT HOME
There are probably few things in life that are as exciting, or as nerve-racking, as searching for a home. With an organized home buying plan, you can minimize a great deal of the emotional impact. By determining your buying power and truly considering your wants and needs, your chances of a stress-free experience are much better.
A few suggestions for buyers of all experience levels:
- Speaking with a lender is always a good first step. Your lender can get you pre-qualified (some sellers will require you to be pre-qualified before they consider your offer) and set a price range that is realistic to your individual sitation.
- Once you are qualified to buy, get going. We always recommend finding a Realtor to assist you in the buying process. A real estate agent has access to Multiple Listings Services, they have a network of other real estate agents to work with and have knowledge of the local area.
- Next, really consider what you need and what you want in a home. Consider the length of time you plan to be in your new home, the schools in the area, distance to shopping or work, and all of the other factors that effect your life.
Schools: Schools are an important consideration even if you don't have children. Generally, homes near schools and/or in reputable school districts hold their value better than homes that are not.
Neighborhood: Is the neighborhood safe, are the other homes kept up and does the neighborhood have desirable amenities (parks, recreation areas, etc)? It is as important to consider the neighborhood just as much as the home itself.
- Start looking! Work with your real estate agent to find some great homes to consider. You can use our website to search for listings or even check the local papers to help you narrow down homes that you are interested in.
- Be realistic. The perfect home may not exist. It is difficult to find a home that meets 100% of your wants so it is important to be realistic. What characteristics are absolutely necessary and which could you compromise on?
- Get an inspection. Once you have decided to make an offer, it is always a good idea to include an inspection. Investing the $200 to $400 (on average) could save you thousands down the rode, and some heartache if major issues arise in your new home.
- The most important step in the buying process...have fun! Buying a new home or buying a home for the first time is a huge decision, but it should also be a fun and exciting one.
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