Buying a home here in Northern Virginia is admittedly a very big step. Homes are big investments, but they’re not simply financial investments. Finding the right one for you and your lifestyle requires an investment in time, too – house hunting time as well as house thinking time. Getting your housing priorities in line before the hunt begins is essential, but staying on your game during the hunt is just as important. Get geared up for your home buying venture with these tips that can help you avoid common property buying pitfalls.
Buyers typically make quick emotional judgments about the properties they see, but try to see beyond what’s in front of you. If your objection is one that’s simple to remedy, such as paint color or décor, the home may still be a contender if it fits your other criteria. It could even offer an opportunity to put your own style stamp on the house.
Think about the future. Will this neighborhood still be as attractive, or maybe even more so, in the years to come? Will the home continue to fit your lifestyle as both you and it evolve? How is the community likely to change, and do those changes mesh with your plans for your future? Even though you haven’t even purchased the home, what is its resale potential?
When you find a property that captures your attention, carefully consider any compromises you may need to make. Know which parts of your purchasing plan are not negotiable, and stick to them. What may seem like a bargain now could become a poor trade-off once you’re living with it.
You wouldn’t undergo a serious medical procedure without a second opinion, and you shouldn’t buy a home without an inspection. Independent experts who have no vested interest in whether or not the home is sold conduct the inspections, and they can tell you what you’re getting into should you decide to purchase the home. Chances are that your mortgage company will require one, but if not, it’s a still good safety net to have.
Finally, one of the best ways to stick to your home buying plan is to work with a professional agent. Agents are trained not only to see you through the legalities of purchasing a property, but also to help you sift through the mountain of information that goes along with it. He or she will know about properties currently on the market as well as ones that are about to make their appearance. An agent can quickly help you find the home that best suits your needs.
Buying a home can seem overwhelming, but having a professional in your corner will make your house hunt go smoothly. All of us here at The Sullivan Group are ready to help you find the perfect property. Call our office today at 703-222-3300 or contact me directly by email or by phone at 703-268-6380.
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