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Home Ownership Do's and Don'ts

By
Services for Real Estate Pros with Rate A Home

Home ownership is in reach more than ever before.

The current buyer's market is presenting more opportunities than we have seen even 3 years ago.

The smart buyer is taking advantage of the market and will reap the benefits of the smart move a few years down the road.

The "Do's and Don'ts" of making the right choice in Home Ownership.

 Do:

  • Hire a Professional Licensed Real-estate agent to open the door of Home Ownership.
  • Create a Personal Budget.
  • Get pre-qualified for a mortgage before starting the search.
  • Pay off as much debt as possible without using the money set aside for your down payment.
  • Check your credit report to determine if there are any discrepancies.
  • Attend a home buyer's school.
  • Create a Home or Condo Wish List. This will help the buyer focus on their true needs. Plus, a wish list will help the agent understand your wants and needs. Keep in mind how many years you will plan on living in the home.
  • Stay within your financial means. You don't want to be married to a mortgage.
  • Use a Walk Through Check List while touring properties. This will help you organize your search and eliminate un-needed return trips to refresh your memory of what each home included.
  • Leave your children with a sitter, this will help you to concentrate on this very important decision you will be making.
  • Utilize a Rating System to make the right choice for you and your family.
  • Use a certified and licensed home inspector.
  • Professional Advice: Because a real-estate purchase can be a complex and confusing transaction, it is a good idea to seek legal, environmental, tax and other professional advice while researching the buying, purchase, mortgage and closing process.

Don't:

  • Borrow anything other then your mortgage during the home buying process.
  • Add to the credit card balance.
  • Approach this important decision purely on emotions. Emotional buying can lead to the wrong choice.
  • Forget to let your friends and family know your new address that you will be calling Home.

Happy Home Hunting!

 

Animations courtesy of www.92ee.com

Comments (2)

Heather the Realtor Orlando, Lake Mary
LemonTree Realty - Orlando, FL
First Time Home Buyers, Bank Owned Homes
Great blog and advice to first time home buyers. Stay warm this Holiday season. I am vacationing in Michigan as well Brrrr. Merry Christmas.
Dec 24, 2007 02:04 PM
* Rate A Home
Rate A Home - Saugatuck, MI

Heather, thanks for stopping by and commenting. What part of Michigan are you vacationing in? It's at least sunny here today but cold none the less. It's Michigan!

Merry Christmas.

Dec 25, 2007 06:04 AM