Having only owned older homes has aged me. Grey hair, wrinkles, visible markers of stress I tell you! But would I do it again? Should I? And, as a new agent, how do I honestly but appropriately discuss the pro's and con's of older home ownership with first time buyers?
At this point I don't consider myself a home owner (though I am), I consider myself a steward of the land and the preservationist of this little box of 1947 history. I have had to do foundation work, replace the entire electrical system, most of the plumbing, and various other serious and costly structural issues. I have often wondered if it's even worth it!
Because first time homebuyers are often working with a modest budget and looking for a "starter home," I wonder how much coaching I should offer in the way of maintenance preparedness? I currently approach this topic with humor. Do you want to own power tools? Do you know a lot of people in the building/maintenance industry? I believe I have been able to help people realistically ascertain their physical abilities and financial goals. But do other agents take the time to do this? Gosh I hope so!
Most articles/posts and advertisements I see geared towards first-time homebuyers are all about aggressive financing options. It seems that many agents are simply taking a "get 'em in at any cost" approach. But, if we don't set our buyers up for success in their property undertakings, are we really doing what is right for the property, the history of our towns and communities, or our clients?
I think these are GREAT posts/articles for new homebuyers and new agents:
5 Common Mistakes First-Time Homebuyers Make
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