Make your first home buying experience a positive one from start to finish. Check out these tips to help you streamline the process.
Utilize the Internet
There are numerous apps (with accompanying websites) you can download in order to see available homes in your area. Some of the most popular sites include, Realtor.com, Zillow.com, Trulia.com, and Redfin.com. Use these resources to research the neighborhoods you want to live in. You can set up parameters in the apps so you are alerted anytime a new home pops up for sale in both your price range and your desired zip code. They are incredibly useful tools.
Interview Real Estate Agents
Interview as many real estate agents as you need until you find someone you feel confident in. Come up with a list of things that are important to you and tailor your questions accordingly. For example, if you are someone who requires a lot of attention, find someone willing to give that to you. Purchasing your first home comes with a lot of new experiences. The purchasing process itself requires a lot of different steps. You don’t want this exciting time to be tainted by a negative experience with your real estate agent.
Research Mortgage Options
Do you want to work with a mortgage broker? A bank? This is a question that will require you to research as much as you possibly can. Researching various options in terms of lenders is a crucial step in the home buying process. Not all institutions were created equal. Take time to find a bank that fits your needs. If customer service is important to you, make sure you choose a bank who excels in this area.
Stick to a Budget
Nobody wants to be house poor. Find out how much you are willing to spend on a mortgage and work with your lender to determine a budget. Go over your budget with your real estate agent and stick to it! The last thing you want to do is fall in love with a house that you cannot afford.
Home Inspection
You will want to be physically present during the home inspection. This gives you the opportunity to get a feel for every nook and cranny of your new home. You don’t want to miss anything! Home inspections are a time to uncover any problems. You need and want to know about any and all issues your new home may have. If the inspector discovers something during the inspection that you aren’t happy with, you still have the option to walk away. Take this job seriously!
Purchasing your first home is something to be extremely proud of. Enjoy every step of the process by taking advantage of the resources available to you. In addition, take time to ensure you have the right people by your side so you can find your perfect first home!