When a first-time home buyer begins hunting for the prize that has to serve both as a satisfactory home base and a solid investment, most feel a mixture of excitement (a home is a landmark achievement!) and maybe just a touch of apprehension. Like any expense you’ve never encountered before, it’s appropriate to take extra care the first time out — and to pay attention to what experience teaches. Along those lines, here are some mistakes that are easy for a first-time home buyer to make. Fortunately, they’re also easy to sidestep:
1. Waiting for a better rate
Adjustable rates may well be about as low as they’re going to get right now – and some signs point to an increase in the coming months. For a first-time home owner who will be taking out a loan, if the property is right, hesitating to make a commitment based on a loan rate gamble is seldom a good idea.
2. Thinking short term
Consider thinking of a home as a lifetime investment. Even for those who are single or newly-wedded, it’s possible that being open to a house with extra rooms could end up saving considerably on moving, transaction and agent fees, taxes, etc. It’s equally important to look at neighborhoods and how they are changing and developing. If you do resell your home, location can make a big difference in how.
3. Underestimating hidden costs
The monthly mortgage payment isn’t the ultimate bottom line. When a first-time home buyer comes across a property that fills (or exceeds) everything he or she has been looking for, if the mortgage payment looks to be right, it’s easy to overlook other homeowner expenses. Experienced buyers make hardheaded estimates of maintenance fees and property taxes — they will be every bit as consequential as the mortgage bill.
For a first-time home buyer in Metrowest of Boston, when thoughtful perspective goes into your final decision, it’s that much more likely to be a decision that pays off in the long run. If you are preparing to buy this year, I’ll be standing by to help get you started!
When you are buying a home or selling a home start by working with a
seasoned real estate professional who will keep your best interests at heart! I have helped home buyers and sellers for over 25 years. I’ll be there for you throughout the entire process! I can also refer you to reputable mortgage lenders, home inspectors and contractors.
Don’t forget, you can stay on top of Metro West real estate with my FREE monthly newsletter and market updates! The Market Insider report is also free and packed with useful information.
When you have questions about real estate, contact me first! I will provide the latest sales data and the market experience you can trust!
John Savignano
MA Real Estate Expert
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