As a first-time homebuyer, you can get overwhelmed with information...from loan information to real estate information...from learning experiences from friends and family to reading information on your own. So, as your Real Estate Agent it is important to us that we help you gain Real Estate knowledge without being overwhelmed and discouraged. If you are looking to become a homeowner and don't know where to start...a good place to begin is...writing down your wants and needs.

1. What are your reasons for moving? Is it because of the location? Is the family getting bigger or smaller? Is the kitchen too small or big? Are you getting tired of renting and paying someone else's mortgage? Are you looking to invest?
2. Are you looking for a House, Condo, or townhouse?
3. How many bedrooms/bathrooms do need?
4. Are you looking for a turnkey house or are you okay with a fixer? If you are okay with a fixer, do you have additional funds to invest in getting professional opinions and help?
5. Are you looking to live near a school or work? If you are commuting...how far are you willing to drive to and from work?
6. How long do you plan on living in the house?

    These are just some questions that are good to ask yourself, so you have an idea of what you are looking for. Since the current market has an abundance of homes that are currently being sold in short sales, foreclosure auctions, and directly from the bank. Not to mention, the interest rates are low. Now is a good time to purchase a home. As your Mother & Daughter Realty Team, we offer Foreclosure Tours throughout the Central Valley and Sacramento areas. This allows you to tour several homes throughout the day in a specified area. A great way to see the inventory available to you. If you are interested in a New Homes or resale, we also have the access you need to preview homes available.

    Once you have determined your wants and needs in a home, you'll need to know how much you can afford to spend on a home. Before you go to a Lender get a copy of your credit report (from all 3 bureaus), income, debt, checking and savings accounts, and know what you current budget is. The Lender will compile your information and determine what you are pre-Approved for. It is best to go to more than 1 lender and I advise doing this on the same day because they run your credit report (If you have a copy they may accept this) and over a period of time this will change your credit score.

     After you know the amount that you can afford to get on a house, the house-hunting begins!