Buying A Home
A key reason people buy a house is to have a place to call home. Whether it’s your first time around or not, buying a home is a big step, and it involves making important long-term decisions.
Anna has decades of experience helping buyers navigate the complex steps in real estate transactions. Use the information and tips on this page to get moving toward fulfilling your ownership goals.
Want some tips for finding and buying home that is perfect for you?
Mind Your Money Matters
Do
- Get pre-approved for a loan.
- Have 2 years of steady job history.
- Get all paperwork to the lender ASAP.
- Communicate often with your realtor and loan officer.
- Pay all of your bills on time.
- Keep your asset accounts as high as possible.
Don't
- Quit your job or change line of work for lower wages.
- Open new bank/credit accounts or create credit record inquiries.
- Apply for new credit cards.
- Purchase big ticket items.
- Retire.
- Compromise your credit score.
10 Tips for First-Time Home Buyers
- Be picky, and realistic. There is no perfect home.
- Do your homework before you start looking. Decide specifically what features you want in a home and which are most important to you.
- Get your finances in order. Review your credit report and be sure you have enough money to cover your down payment and your closing costs. We can advise you through this.
- Secure a lender and get prequalified for a mortgage before you start looking. We can recommend some quality lenders for you.
- Limit your advice input. Getting opinions from a lot of people will drive you crazy. Select one or two people to turn to if you feel you need a second opinion.
- Set a timeframe to move. When is your lease up? Are you allowed to sublet? How tight is the rental market in your area?
- Think long-term. Are you looking for a starter house with the idea of moving up in a few years or do you hope to stay in this home longer? This decision may dictate what type of home you’ll buy as well as the type of mortgage terms that suit you best.
- Avoid being house poor. If you max yourself out to buy the biggest home you can afford, you’ll have no money left for maintenance or decoration, or to save money for other financial goals.
- Get informed. Insist on a home inspection and, if possible, get a warranty from the seller to cover defects within one year.
- Get help. Work with a REALTOR as a buyer’s representative. A buyer’s representative can help walk you through this process with experience and expertise.
Looking for more tips to help you find and buy the perfect property?