Buying a home is a huge milestone in your life, and as a Realtor, I get a lot of satisfaction in being able to help someone purchase their first home. I enjoy working with first-time homebuyers and going through the process. Here are some tips I have for those new to the home buying experience…
Work with a Realtor
You need a team player you are comfortable being honest with. I'll never try to push a client into a home or a decision they are not ready to make. However, getting honest feedback from my clients is essential. I can't know that you want a home facing East if you don't tell me, or that you really need space for your collection of comic books. Be honest and upfront with your Realtor not only what you really need (and want) in a home and also about your financial situation. Talking about your finances is a little like undressing at the Dr.'s office. Awkward. I get it. But, necessary. And, relax, I've seen it all before. Whether you have saved diligently for years and have a sizable down payment, received gift money from a generous relative, or you've got little down payment and are trying to buy a home by the skin of your teeth... as your Realtor I am your partner in this entire endeavor. Better to talk about it up front and work with solutions that fit your budget and lifestyle.
Find a Reputable Lender
The internet can be a wonderful source of information and a great place to begin any search, but it should not be the sole source of information. You probably wouldn't buy a car without driving it, or even shoes without trying them on. There is so much more to a lender than an advertisement for a low rate. Talk to others, including your Realtor, to get recommendations. Most people go through the process of obtaining a mortgage a handful of times in their entire lifetime. Realtors are typically (and hopefully) juggling 5-10 transactions or more at any given moment. We see not only who offers competitive rates, but also who has the best customer service and who comes up with solutions when there are bumps in the road.
Use Professional Services
Whether it’s a real estate attorney, appraiser or home inspector, you want to know your transaction is being handled by professionals in their field. People who are trained to read the mountain of documents and hunt for errors or climb out a tiny window onto the roof to inspect for damage. Even though it is an added expense, it is worth the piece of mind you will gain in knowing your mortgage paperwork was handled properly and your dream house does not have termite damage or an underground oil tank.
Buying a home is probably the biggest purchase you will ever make. Once you've found the right home, your Realtor will be command central and coordinator for every additional piece of the transaction. Build your team on trust.
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