In this fast-paced, competitive real estate market, homebuyers may start the process anxious, excited or nervous. This reaction is natural. A home is often the largest and most important purchase people may make. In addition to spending much of your life in those interior walls, it’s also a potentially good long-term investment. .
When you’re ready to start looking for that home, speaking with a qualified lender is the best first step. This important meeting will help identify any challenges in your financial world that could prevent you from qualifying for a loan. You will also find out how much home you can afford. After you’ve been pre-qualified you’ll be able to shop more efficiently and feel confident when placing an offer that you’re loan will be approved.
Here is a list of tips for first-time homebuyers get off on the right foot.
- Make Lists: Write out a list of the things that you want and a list of the things that you need in a new home. Share this list with your agent so that they can better help find what you are looking for. Update or add to your list as you think of things and share those changes with your agent.
- Keep Notes: Your agent is going to keep solid records of the homes that you see. However you should also keep your own notes as you go to open houses. After each home, share what you liked and what you didn’t like with your agent. That will help him or her narrow the search down for you.
- Organize Your Documents: Keep your documents organized and all in one place. If you have a pre-approval letter, keep that with you on house hunts in case you decide to make an offer. Any documents that you will need like inspection reports or appraisals should be readily available as you search for homes.
- Stay Positive: Maybe the most important tip for first-time homebuyers is to stay positive. Even after you have found the home that you want, made an offer, and had it accepted, the process of closing the deal can sometimes take longer than you’d like. Stay positive. If you’ve looked at several houses and still haven’t found what you want or you found a great home but are competing with multiple buyers, stay calm and resilient. Trust your agent to get it right for you.
Speaking with an Agent
An agent for first-time homebuyers is an invaluable asset. They can help you navigate the process when you are unsure of what to do next. You could call and speak with an agent if you have general questions. However, if you are ready to seriously start shopping for a home, you need an agent now. Feel free to contact agent with your specific questions.