Five Preparation Tips for Buyers
Although spring has traditionally been the time that many buyers are motivated to enter the real estate market, buyers search for homes throughout the year. If you are in the market for a new home, here are some tips to help you get prepared.
1. Get your credit in shape. Unless you are making a cash purchase, check your 
credit history. This is especially important if you are a first-time buyer. That way you can make corrections to any errors, make sure your information is up-to-date, and give your credit score a boost. Federal law allows you to get a free copy of your credit report every 12 months from each credit reporting company. Order a copy from www.annualcreditreport.com.
2. Get pre-approved for a mortgage. Prior to contacting a Realtor®, meet with a loan officer and the lender will examine your credit history, bank 
and investment statements, and your current financial situation in order to determine what you can afford and what financing options are available.
3. Establish your budget. Regardless of the method you are using to finance your purchase, establishing a budget is key. This will serve as a guide and help you stay focused while searching homes within your price range.
4. Make a list and check it twice. Buying a home is a process of elimination, not a process 
of selection. Make a list of your must haves and deal breakers. This will help you narrow your search so that you can find the home that fits both your current and future needs.
5. Think about resale. Consider that the average homeowner lives in their home for
about ten years. You never know when you may need to sell it one day. So be sure to consider the homes' resale value when you're looking at properties.
If you are thinking about buying home and need a Realtor®, please don't hesitate to contact me!
image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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