Do you agree?

1. TThey don't ask enough questions of their Lender and miss out on the best deal. Many don't even think about a lender until they have found the "home of their dreams".
2. They don't act quickly enough to make a decision and someone else buys the house.
3. They don't find the right real estate professional that is willing to help them through the homebuying process.
4. They don't do enough to make their offer look good to the Seller.
5. They don't think about resale before they buy. the average first-time buyers are only in their first home for 3-5 years.

 A great tool for helping first-time buyers entering the real estate market is to attend a HUD certified first-time homebuyer seminar. These seminars are wonderful jump off points as they provide credible information about the homebuying process. They give an opportunity for the buyers to ask questions and get answers.

Often times, it helps to dispell and misconceptions that abound regarding the local real estate market and other common concerns. I have found that working with first-time homebuyers that have attended these seminars are ready, motivated, and organized. Most importantly, they have a clear understanding of the process and truly act as partners in the process.  

For seminars in your area, please feel free to visit the Washington State Housing Finance Commission or the Washington Homeownership Center.