When your start thinking about buying a home there are a few things buyers should consider during the buying process. Today I would like to share these guidelines for buyers.
Remember that to be objective when viewing a home. Think about whether a home meets your needs today and whether it will continue to meet your needs in the future. You may find a charming small home that pulls your heartstrings, but isn’t practical if you are planning on having a large family or need a work from home space.
Consider resale when you are buying. You may love the neighborhood but the schools may not appeal to buyers when it is your turn to sell. The location can make a huge difference in resale later down the line. Proximate to parks, good schools, and shopping draws people in, but being near an airport, train tracks, and a freeway may keep buyers away. When you are ready to move on you want a home that has increased in value that attracts buyers.
Budget. Look below your max. You will need an inspection and the home may need repairs. Sometimes the seller will make the repair and sometimes they will negotiate down to allow you to make repairs Occasionally the price is the price and you will have to decide if you can afford the repairs and if the house is worth it. Regardless the inspection may tell you that the roof is ok, but it will need replacing in the next ten years or the pool refinished in a few years. These are repairs you will need to budget for the future. Make sure that you can afford the home and the maintenance to keep it up.
Get your financial house in order. Pin point potential problems for lenders before you even start, so that you can be assured that when your ready you can buy with confidence. Get your credit score. Look for any errors and get them corrected. Speak to a lender and get a pre-approval. The pre-approval will not only give you an idea of what the lender thinks you can afford, but it also speaks volumes to the seller.
Finally, look for programs that can help. First time buyers programs can offer down payment assistance or financing options that will work with your budget to help you get into that first home.
What ever home you are looking to buy a good realtor can help you every step of the way.
Happy Hunting!
About the Author
Debbie Caldwell
When you first meet Debbie Harris-Caldwell, you are immediately drawn to her charming Welsh accent and the twinkle in her eye. The well-traveled transplant from Wales is quick to set you at ease and time spent with her promises to be time well spent.
Debbie has been a real estate agent for 40 years and takes great pride in her customer service skills. "I make myself available to my customers when they need me, whether it's on a Sunday Evening or after their long day at work. I make my schedule fit theirs. I also keep my customers updated on everything happening with their listings or purchase, I am their conduit for information." She has built a business following her key principles of clear communication, attention to detail, client advocacy, and comprehensive knowledge of the area. Debbie comes to every new transaction with positive energy, determination, a strong understanding of the currents driving the market, and the expertise that comes from a lifetime of experience. She knows the importance of marketing and whether a home is for sale for $200,000 or for $2 million, she always has professional photography done and creates a listing presentation that best shows off her customer's home.