Tips for buying a Home

Buying a home can be exciting and complicated. Below are tips on how to make

1) Pre-Qaulification

Meet with a mortgage broker and find out how much you can afford to pay for a home.      

2) Pre-Approval

Knowing how much you can afford is the first step. Sellers are more receptive to buyers who have been pre-approved. To get a Pre-Approval, the buyer applies for a mortgage and receives a commitment in writing from a lender. With a Pre-Approval the seller knows that you are a serious buyer. Costs for pre-approval are nominal, lenders will often allow you to pay them when you close your loan.  

3) List of Needs & Wants

Make two lists. The first should include items you must have (i.e., the number of bedrooms & bathroom, single story or multi floor plans, etc.).

The second list is your wishes - things you would like to have (pool, den, etc.) but that are not absolutely necessary. Realistically for first-time buyers, you probably will not get everything on your wish list, but it will keep you on track for what you are looking for.

4) Professional Representation

Consider hiring your own real estate agent, one who is working for you, the buyer, not the seller.

5) Organizational items

In a convenient location, keep handy the items that will assist you in maximizing your home search efforts. Such items may include:

1. One or more detailed maps with your areas of interest highlighted.
2. A list or file of the properties that your agent has shown to you.
3. Paper and pen for taking notes as you search.
4. A camera to snap pictures of homes you have toured to help you remember your favorites and features you really liked.  

6) Visualize the house empty & with your decor

Are the rooms laid out to fit your needs? Is there enough light?

7) Be Objective

Instead of thinking with your heart when you find a home, think with your head. Does this home really meet your needs? There are many houses on the market, so don't make a hurried decision that you may regret later.

8) Be Thourough

A few extra dollars well spent now may save you big expenses in the long run. Don't forget such essentials as:

1. Include inspection & mortgage contingencies in your written offer.
2. Have the property inspected by a professional inspector.
3. Request a second walk-through to take place within 24 hours of closing.
4. You want to check to see that no changes have been made that were not agreed on (i.e., a nice chandelier that you assumed came with the sale having been replaced by a cheap ceiling light).