Home Buyer Tips

Tips for Homebuyers

Items to Consider

** Before you begin the process of previewing home, make a list of what your criteria is.  Consider the location, style you prefer, age of home, and any needed amenities.

** Pace yourself when previewing properties.  Don’t see too many in one day as it may cause you to be overwhelmed with so many homes. 

** Keep notes and when you find a property that you like, visit it at different times of the day. 

** Check out the looks of the neighborhood.  Then walk or drive by the preferred home several times.

** Keep an open mind.  Don’t get too caught up on interior decoration – many of those items can be changes.

** Keep track of what items are included in the purchase contract.  If there are appliances or furniture pieces that you want, make sure they are included in the offer. 

** Be curious as to why the sellers are moving.  Look for any red flags that might also be of concern to you are a home owner.

** Do your homework.  Ask for information about property taxes and average utilities costs.  Sellers are usually receptive to providing this information to a prospective buyer.  Don’t be shy in asking for it. 

Things Not To Do

** Don’t make any other major purchases when you are in the process of purchasing a home.  This will have an impact on your credit score and could negatively impact your ability to qualify for a mortgage.

** Don’t change jobs unless absolutely necessary.  Lenders prefer to have a work history to work with and job changes during the loan process makes this more difficulty.

** Don’t give earnest money directly to a For Sale By Owner Seller.  It is best to use a title company in this situation. 

** Don’t forget to start asking about the need for Hazard Insurance with your lender before approaching the settlement date. 

** Don’t forget to keep in close contact with your lender.  Numerous documents will be required and the sooner they are submitted the better for everyone.  Lenders will usually give you a list of required documents….keep it handy.

** Don’t feel like you have to go it alone.  Real Estate Agents are trained to help make the process more understandable and help you with all the details involved in this stressful and time-consuming process. 

** Don’t forget to switch utilities in your name once you know definitely when you will be signing the papers to purchase the property.  You don’t want to be without utilities on move-in day.