Home Search Tips

If you are thinking about buying a home there a few things you should consider before searching for a property to buy. Being prepared and knowing what to look for in a home is vital to a successful home search. Here are a few tips to get you started on your home search:

1. Research before you look. Decide what features you most want to have in a home, what neighborhoods you prefer, and how much you’d be willing to spend each month for housing.

2. Be realistic. It’s OK to be picky, but don’t be unrealistic with your expectations. There’s no such thing as a perfect home. Use your list of priorities as a guide to evaluate each property.

3. Get your finances in order. Review your credit report and be sure you have enough money to cover your down payment and closing costs. Then, talk to a lender and get prequalified for a mortgage. This will save you the heartache later of falling in love with a house you can’t afford.

4. Don’t ask too many people for opinions. It will drive you crazy. Select one or two people to turn to if you feel you need a second opinion, but be ready to make the final decision on your own.

5. Decide your moving timeline. When is your lease up? Are you allowed to sublet? How tight is the rental market in your area? All of these factors will help you determine when you should move.

6. Think long term. Are you looking for a starter house with plans to move up in a few years, or do you hope to stay in this home for a longer period? This decision may dictate what type of home you’ll buy as well as the type of mortgage terms that will best suit you.

7. Insist on a home inspection. Make sure the inspector is reputable, licenced and insured. If possible, get a warranty from the seller to cover defects for one year.

8. Get help from an experienced real estate agent. Hire a real estate professional who is experienced in your desired area and specializes in buyer representation. Contacting an agent that is directly listing a property can be misleading. Remember that their first duty is to the seller. A buyer’s representative at Red Door Real Estate will work for you, always putting your interest first.