First-time Home Buyers: The first step is the pre-qual!

So, I have begun thinking it would be a good idea to dedicate a section to first-time home buyers here on my blog.  I know there are so many of you in my area of the country and it continues to grow in leads and bounds because of the Military members moving into Altus AFB.

Before I begin showing homes to a first-time home buyer, I like for them to get a pre-qualification letter from a reputable lender.  (I'll discuss how to go about finding a lender you can depend on in a bit.)  The pre-qual just requires you to give very basic information, usually over the phone, to the lender in order to get a ballpark price of the home that you will be able to buy.  This helps you keep from seeing homes that you wouldn't be able to qualify for and, by looking in your price range, gives you a realistic idea of what is out for you.  The pre-qualification loan amount can usually be tweaked after you sit down and do loan paperwork with the lender you have chosen, but having it helps you to more easily find a home for you (and your family, if you have one).

Finding a lender can sometimes be a tedious process.  I like to provide my buyer clients with a list of lenders in the area and their contact info.  Sometimes clients will ask me for a recommendation and I will give it to them when I am asked, but otherwise I let them call from the list.  The list I give to my clients is quite extensive and lists all lenders that I can think of within a 50+ mile range.  I also include things such as the credit scores that are required (and I change it when necessary) by each lender.  I think this is very beneficial to those who use me as their REALTOR and I will continue to offer these lists.  Above all else, you should always feel comfortable and trust the lender that you have you a home loan with, so tread carefully with your loan proceedings until you find that one, perfect-for-you lender. 

I want any and all first-time home buyers who work with me to feel like they have received the best possible service and refer me out to all their friends, family, co-workers, and acquantances, even.  I love the community of Altus, OK and I love show off all the opportunities, hidden or otherwise, to everyone I come in contact with.

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall weather is just around the corner!  If you're a first-time homebuyer in the Altus area, I'd love to sit down and discuss all that home ownership has to offer you.  I specialize in Military relocations and working with first-time home buyers.  Being an Air Force spouse who has made many moves over the years, it offers unique perspective with those who are moving into our community because of the Military.  Being from this area originally gives me a perspective of working with those who have always called Altus (or any of the neighboring communities) home, but are now ready to have their first taste of the American dream - home ownership.

I look forward to working with those of you in the Altus and Altus AFB area soon!  Happy house hunting!!