In today’s age of information and high-tech, “here and now” devices – it’s no wonder that 90% of all buyers start their home search online. But if you’re a first-time home buyer there is more to preparing to buy a home than just browsing websites. To help you prepare, I’ve put together my top four tips that I feel every first-time buyer should know before getting started.
Assess Your Financial Outlook
This may seem like the most logical place to start but a lot of buyers tend to overlook the most important aspect of buying a home – knowing what they can afford! When you meet with a mortgage professional you will receive more than just a guess of what you might be able to manage each month. A detailed financial consultation will help you to examine your debt-to-income ratio as well as other things like how buying a house fits in to your long-term financial goals.
Get a Pre-Approval From Your Lender
I’ve developed some great relationships with lenders and can help you find a lender that makes sense for you. Like you would select your real estate agent, it’s important to work with a loan officer that understands your needs and truly connects with you. A valuable benefit of getting preapproved is to be able to demonstrate your financial strength, making yours a stronger more attractive offer that sellers take seriously.
Involve the Professionals When You Need Help
Rather than be tough and let go of the opportunity to ask for help when you need it, engage your Realtor® (call me, text me or email – what’s easiest?) to be more effective throughout your home buying process. If something seems unattainable, or if you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation – utilize the professional services and assistance of your real estate agent and their team, ask questions and get answers. (That’s what I am here for!)
Be Realistic In Your Expectations
Many first-time buyers have not had the opportunity to review our marketplace and get to know what’s out there. As a result, they don’t realize it when they are not being realistic. If you have special requirements or needs that could end up in being deal breakers for you during your purchase, share them with your Realtor® but trust the market when it comes to making minor adjustments to your expectations. An example is when buying a re-sale home versus new construction. If you know you will want a newer home, keep it in mind ahead of time and be sure to let me know.
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One of my commitments is providing nothing but the best service to my clients, whether you are a first-time buyer or a long-time property investor, whether your budget is $50,000 or $5 million. Regardless of your experience level in buying homes, my team and I are there for you and will continue to serve you as needed.
As a first-time buyer, the best tip of all is to have a strong, knowledgeable, reputable and experienced real estate agent by your side. We invite you to get in touch today!
269.830.0694 voice or text
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