You’ve waited for the housing recovery. Your down payment is in the bank and you’re pre-approved for a mortgage. You’re all ready to buy a home. Here are some tips for doing it the smart way:
Make sure it’s the right time. If you are planning to stay put for a while, buying a home at today’s low prices and locking in a historically low mortgage rate could be an extremely smart move.
Start with a Realtor. Some tech-savvy buyers like to use the Internet and mobile apps to search for homes. But there is no substitute to having someone on your side who can help you navigate the home buying process. Buying a home could be the biggest purchase you ever make. A good Realtor can help you make sure what you’re buying – and where you’re buying it – makes sense for you and your family.
Focus on fundamentals. You found a home that looks like it could be featured in Better Homes & Gardens. But dig a bit deeper. How’s the roof? What’s the condition of the furnace? Check the condition of things that are costly to repair and could have a big impact on your enjoyment of the property.
Don’t get carried away. The real estate market in many areas of the country has begun to tilt in the favor of sellers. In some areas, multiple offers above asking price are the norm. But don’t let a hot real estate market cause you to neglect the basics, like a home inspection, in the name of getting a home. Many who skip home inspections or rush to buy a home sight unseen in a fast-moving real estate market have regretted it later.
For more home buying tips, check out this article. Happy house hunting!