What are 5 things first time home buyers must know?

What are Five Things First-Time Home Buyers MUST know?

Most important: Don’t leave purchasing your first home up to chance! Use a Realtor that will help you every step of the way. There are many layers to purchasing a home, and you need to be informed. Here are my top tips for first-time home buyers.

1. Be choosy, but realistic
Your price point will dictate what options and features are realistic in the home you are looking for. A Realtor who looks at several houses in different price points each week is a great resource to help you decide what is realistic within your budget and the area where you want to live.

2. Do your homework
Take the time to really know what you are looking for in a house, including location and house features that are most important to you.

3. Get pre-approved for a mortgage
There are a lot of mortgage options right now. Meet with a mortgage lender who will take the time to explain the options and help you determine a comfortable price point for you and your family. If you would like to speak to a mortgage lender, I would be happy to make a referral!

4. Think long term
Don’t buy house that you will outgrow in 2 years. You want to make sure you see yourself living in this house long term.

5. Get a home inspection
I recommend this to every client, regardless of price point, location, or apparent visible state of the house (i.e., even if the house looks perfect). Having a professional inspect the home before you buy it can save you thousands of dollars down the road.

If you are a planning to buy your first home this year, give me a call! It is never too early to start planning and preparing. Please share this with anyone you know looking to purchase a home.