Yes, the real estate market has changed as a result of tighter lending requirements. But here is the good news! Lenders are lending money for home purchases and interest rates are approaching historic lows. With that said, if you are thinking about buying a home now could be the right time to buy your new home.
Your 5 Successful Home Buyer Tips!
- Before you are tempted to click on the MLS Property Search button, get yourself to a lender and determine how much home is right for your income and your budget. Even better, secure a pre-approval letter from your lender. When it’s time to present your offer to purchase, the seller will consider yours in a much better light if you attach a copy of your pre-approval letter. I can give you some great lenders if you need one.
- Get a feel for the market in your preferred neighborhood. I will help protect you from potential pitfalls and legal challenges when buying a home.
- Research home values, research schools and research lifestyle amenities in your preferred neighborhood. And by all means, be realistic with your wants, and your needs. If necessary, be prepared to compromise too.
- Use all the tools at your disposal to search, which will include neighborhood Google maps, and using a rock-solid website property search. Don’t forget to try out the various smart phone applications like Trulia Property Search APP, the Homefinder APP or the Puluwai APP and see which one is best for you. These tools can be invaluable should you be out and about driving the streets looking for homes for sale.
- For the final point, we're actually going to lump several tips in this final bullet. First, buying a home is a very emotional experience. This is especially true for first-time buyers. When viewing properties for sale, be very critical. We suggest you take many photos (or video) of the properties (ask permission first). We also suggest you avoid “falling head over heels in love” with a home at first glance. Once you have narrowed your choices, visit your top 3 choices again and if necessary, again. Once you have narrowed your choice to the finalist, visit the home in the evening, in the morning and try to visit the property in the rain. Once you make your offer on your home, always include a home inspection in the offer. It’s the best money you can spend (invest) in your new home.
Your Feedback?
What other home buying tips would you include?If you are thinking about buying a home, we are your information resource. No pressure, informing buyers is what we are all about. When you are ready to seriously begin your home search, we welcome your business and desire to be your first choice as your real estate agency.
