The home buying process is an extremely rewarding process, and we want to help you feel like you did it right.
- Find a real estate agent. Finding a real estate agent is going to be the most helpful thing to do when it comes to finding your dream home. Don’t be afraid to talk to and interview several agents to find one that you think has your best interests in mind.
- Figure out what kind of monthly payment your budget allows. Before you start your home search, it’s a really good idea to take the time to sit down to see what your monthly budget looks like now, and what it will look like once you buy a home. You don’t want your monthly housing payments to exceed 25% of your take home pay. Be sure to include property taxes, homeowners’ insurance, etc.
- Buy in a good school district. Homes in a good school district are more likely to go up in property value, as well as sell faster. Even if you don’t have kids, and you never plan on having kids, check out homes in good school districts.
- Know what you are not willing to negotiate on. Buying a home comes with a lot of compromise, but what are those things that you’re not willing to compromise? Maybe you want a walk-in closet, or you want a big open kitchen. Find those things that are important to you and make a list. This process is about you and your future home, so if you know you’ll be devastated if your new home doesn’t come with a formal dining room, don’t settle.
- Don’t rush and be nosey. When you’re looking at homes, don’t be afraid to really look. Obviously if the home is occupied, respect their privacy and their belongings. However, turn on the water, check out the water pressure. Open cabinets and closets, see how much space is in there. Are the yards in the neighborhood kept up with? Purchasing a home is a big decision, and you want to make sure you know what you’re getting.
- Bring in an outsider. Sometimes you don’t realize you’re wearing rose colored glasses, and you think you’ve found the perfect home. Bringing along a friend or family member, who knows what you’re looking for in a home, might help you see the not-so-perfect aspects about the home. It’s easier to stay grounded when you have someone you trust around to help decide if it’s what you’ve been searching for.
- You might get a better deal in the colder months. When school begins for kids, most people have settled into their new homes. By September, the number of homes on the market is still fairly high, and as it gets colder, the market cools down as well. You may not have a full view of available homes, but the prices will be lower!
We want your home buying process to be as smooth as possible, and we want you to get the most out of it. Find your budget and take your time.
