Monday, February 3, 2020 / by Linda Maxwell
10 Tips for Home Buyers
10 Tips for Home Buyers
1. Be selective, but not unrealistic. There is no “perfect” home, just the right home for you.
2. Do your homework before you start looking. Decide specifically what features you want in a home and which are most important to you.
3. Get your finances in order. Review your credit report and be sure you have enough money to cover your down payment and your closing costs.
4. Determine what you can afford. Talk to a lender and get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start looking.
5. Trust in yourself. Limit the number of people you turn to for a second opinion; as it could make your decisions more difficult.
6. Decide when you could move. When is your lease up? Are you allowed to sublet? Do you have a home to sell? Is there an ideal transition time?
7. Think long-term. Are you looking for a starter house with the idea of moving up in a few years or do you hope to stay in this home longer? This decision may dictate what type of home you’ll buy as well as the type of mortgage terms that suit you best.
8. Think big picture. Consider other expenses, home maintenance and financial goals when determining what price range to purchase in.
9. Be informed. Hire a qualified home inspector and have the home subject to an acceptable home inspection.
10. Get help. Hire a professional realtor as your buyer’s representative. Unlike a listing agent, whose first duty is to the seller, a buyer’s representative is working only for you. Your realtor’s commission is paid for by the seller.
2. Do your homework before you start looking. Decide specifically what features you want in a home and which are most important to you.
3. Get your finances in order. Review your credit report and be sure you have enough money to cover your down payment and your closing costs.
4. Determine what you can afford. Talk to a lender and get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start looking.
5. Trust in yourself. Limit the number of people you turn to for a second opinion; as it could make your decisions more difficult.
6. Decide when you could move. When is your lease up? Are you allowed to sublet? Do you have a home to sell? Is there an ideal transition time?
7. Think long-term. Are you looking for a starter house with the idea of moving up in a few years or do you hope to stay in this home longer? This decision may dictate what type of home you’ll buy as well as the type of mortgage terms that suit you best.
8. Think big picture. Consider other expenses, home maintenance and financial goals when determining what price range to purchase in.
9. Be informed. Hire a qualified home inspector and have the home subject to an acceptable home inspection.
10. Get help. Hire a professional realtor as your buyer’s representative. Unlike a listing agent, whose first duty is to the seller, a buyer’s representative is working only for you. Your realtor’s commission is paid for by the seller.
