Buying a House?
Here's Where To Start.
When you're thinking about getting into the real estate market, there are some things you need to know before buying a house. From the mortgage to the closing costs, there are many things you should be aware of before thinking about purchasing a home - whether it is your first or tenth.
Before Your Start
Make a complete checklist of what you want and what you need to do. This will help you in the buying process and ensure you don't forget anything important. It's also good idea to have realistic expectations about the things you need in a home.
How's Your Credit?
Strengthen your credit score. Your monthly payments will be lower when you have a high credit score. Experts also recommend that you stop applying for new credit for a year before applying for a mortgage.
Expert Mortgage Advice
Talk to your broker or your bank. There are many different options to choose from when you're looking for a mortgage, and keep in mind that posted mortgage rates are just a starting point. If your bank won't negotiate with you, go somewhere else and see what they can offer you.
Did you know? We offer complete mortgage services in-house, to simplify your purchase. Contact us today for more information, or to set up a free consultation.
Get the Details
Consider the terms and rates of your mortgage. The length of the mortgage term will determine the amount of interest that you pay. The amortization period is the amount of time it will take you to pay off your mortgage. The longer your amortization period, the more interest you will have to pay so keep that in mind when you are planning to purchase.
Know Your Limits
Stick to your budget. Be aware of what your spending limit is and stay within it. Don't get caught up in emotional negotiations if you find yourself in a bidding war because you'll be disappointed when it's over and you've blown your budget.
Check 'Under The Hood'
Get a home inspection. This will allow you to discover if there are any structural or electrical issues with the home before you purchase it. If there are issues, you will be in a better position for negotiating a price with the homeowner. Alternately, if there is a bidding war, the seller might try to have the inspection waived. Don't get caught up in your emotions, just walk away.
Be Prepared
Don't forget about the closing costs. These costs can run to up several thousand dollars so be sure to set aside money for these somewhat hidden expenses.
Share Your Tips!
What was the best advice you were given before buying your home? Share your experiences with us in the comments!
Ready to Make Your Move?
If you're ready to start your home search, we'd love to help. At Dewar Realty, we make the process of house hunting much easier and more efficient than if you did it all yourself. We can help you determine your budget, link you with financing, guide you on local neighborhoods, and uncomplicate the home buying process.
We will save you valuable time and energy by finding properties that match your requirements and only show you the most promising ones.
Once you've found a place that catches your eye, we'll look at comparable properties in the area to help determine a purchase offer. Then, we'll negotiate with the seller on your behalf, ensuring you get the most favorable terms.
It's our job to look after your best interests, and we’ll do it at no cost to you as a buyer.
If you're ready to start house hunting, you can search real estate listings now. You can also refer to our Buyer's Guide for helpful tools and buying advice. To start working with an agent right away, please contact me.
Posted by Greg Dewar on
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