12/06/2023
Here are seven things to know and do if you're planning on buying a home after the holidays. The last one may surprise you!
📈 Know your credit score and buying power - talk with a lender before doing anything else so that you have a factual starting point for your plans. Rates are changing rapidly and there are a variety of options out there that can save you thousands of dollars!
🔄 Need to sell your current property in order to buy the next one? Start planning now; timing your sale will be crucial. Know that any offers you make will be considered riskier to accept because of the added complexity of your situation.
💰 Remember to budget for closing costs, moving expenses, and any home repairs in your home buying plan. A good agent and lender will help you consider all the factors so that there are no surprises when the right home comes around.
💡 Consult with your real estate agent. The best Realtors will be able help you manage the entire process from start to finish and will have a checklist for you to refer to as things progress.
📘 Know each step of the home-buying process, from searching to closing to inspection to the 22.1 disclosure. Understanding the process beforehand will allow you to focus on the home itself, not the stepts to get there. Avoid surprises!
🚪 Have your agent arrange showings and give you lists of open houses in the neighborhoods that interest you. Browsing Zillow will only get you so far.
🚫 Speaking of Zillow: Never schedule showings through sites like these! Random agents pay money to be connected with you when you do so, and you won't know who they are, what their experience level is, or if they are experts in the area.
