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I am a first-time homebuyer. . .

By
Real Estate Agent with REALTY PROS

If anything good came out of this housing bust, it is that housing is more affordable. Many couples and single people are now able to go house hunting. Due to the large amounts of foreclosures around the country, people are able to afford their first homes now instead of waiting for an extended period of time.

Since buying a home is one of the most significant purchases you will make in your life, it is understandable that you want to be cautious. Being a first-time homebuyer can be extremely overwhelming. You’re bombarded with information and struggling to find balance between your wants, needs, and of course, sales price. Media reports constantly publicize the availability of “cheaper” homes, giving the illusion that first-time homebuyers can get everything their hearts desire for next to nothing. While there are great real estate deals available, more than likely you will have to make concessions. You may even have to put in some sweat equity. No matter which property you choose, you will still need to transform the space to reflect your personal sense of style. If you’ve never been a do-it-yourself kind of guy or girl, trust me, owning a home will definitely change that.

Many first-time homebuyers make the mistake of holding out until they get everything on their “list of wants” and end of losing a great property. Just like you have an idea about what encompasses your dream vacation or dream wedding, I’m sure that you have envisioned the type of property that you would call home. But sometimes things don’t go so smoothly. The airline may reroute your luggage, cancel your flight, or the venue may not be able to accommodate your needs the way you hoped. Either way, you have to make adjustments. The home buying process is the same way. If the property is located in your desired area and the price is right, the color of the walls or cabinets shouldn’t be a deal breaker. You are the most important accessory to a property because you make it a home.

More often than not, your first home will not be your dream home, but rather a starting point until you can afford that dream home in that perfect location. That’s not to say that your first home can’t come close to your dream. The main thing to remember is that if you find fault with every property that you view, the likelihood that you will find a great property will definitely be reduced exponentially. As a DC Realtor®, I can assure you that owning a home is still a great investment in the DC area.

When you begin looking for your new home, remember to be open-minded. The family that lived in the property before you, made it their own and purchasing it will give you the same opportunity. Buying a home opens endless possibilities for style and creativity.

Hopefully you found this post useful! If you need help finding or selling your Washington DC home, please contact Jason Trotman at 301-452-4767. If you’re new to DC, I’d especially like to extend a warm welcome. I value the opportunity to help my clients find the home that meets their needs and provide them with professional, reliable service.

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Scott Fogleman
New Home Team - Richmond, VA

Its a great time to buy! Low rates and low prices...many first timers are getting deals

Jun 01, 2011 05:06 AM
Eric Crane -- Your Full Service, Discount Fee RealtorĀ®
DPR Realty LLC - Gilbert, AZ
Greater Metro Phoenix Arizona

I love the photo/graphic you used in the post.
As for the low rates and prices -- also a wonderful investment opportunity, since many markets are cash flowing for the first time.  In my own market, you can find homes selling for a fraction of replacement cost.
Best regards, Eric

Jun 01, 2011 05:10 AM
Jason Trotman
REALTY PROS - Washington, DC

I agree guys!

 

Jun 04, 2011 12:52 PM