Buying a new home, especially if it is your first home can be an exciting and stressful time. Where to start your search can be a tough decision if you don’t have any experience investing in real estate.
Getting the help that you need has to start with you making a few key decisions about the kind of home that you really want.
There are many things to consider when you are looking for a new home that goes beyond just the price tag. Buying a house is a huge commitment, so you want to make sure that you end up with the home and neighborhood that fits you best.
Whether you are looking to increase your space, downsize after retirement or move into a new neighborhood, you will need to start with home insurance quotes from any insurance company and then follow these tips to help you start your search for a new home.
Know Your Priorities
One of the first things you should do before you start your home search is to make yourself a “wish list”. Write down all the things that you want from your new home.
You can even divide it into two categories; “must-have” items and features and “would be nice” items. For example, you may be able to live without marble countertops as long as your kitchen is functional for your needs.
Or, you might be willing to sacrifice a walk in closet in the main bedroom if the size of the room is generous to make room for sufficient storage.
Don’t forget to include things on your list like the number of bedrooms that you want, the size of your desired lot, and how far you are willing to commute to work.
You may think you have found the house of your dreams, but if these basic things aren’t met then you may have some regret down the line.
Unless you are building a custom home where you have full control over the design you need to be prepared to make some compromises. Have your “must-haves” set in your mind but be flexible about some of the smaller things.
Get Pre-Approved
Before you start your search, make a trip to your financial institution and arrange for a mortgage pre-approval. This will give you a much better and more realistic view of the budget that you will be working with.
Home sellers and real estate agents will know that you are a serious buyer if you show up with a pre-approval. This can also make it easier to put offers…
Continue reading the article and learn more about home searching on Life Is An Episode website.