08/16/2022
REAL ESTATE SCHOOL: FIRST TIME HOME BUYER 101
Before we start house hunting, I have a few rules to cover to make sure you're getting the best headstart possible.
1. Get pre-approved with a local lender: Staying local and finding someone who understands the local market is important when it comes to financing your home. Need a recommendation? I got you!
2. Don't agent hop - find someone to represent YOU! Choose someone you like and someone you trust so you can look to them for advice on all things home buying. (If you're reading this, there's a good chance I'm the agent you want π)
3. Don't start your search at the top of your budget - Whether you're in a competitive market or not, you're going to want to start your home search well below the top end of your budget. If you start too high, realistic expectations and move-in/renovation costs might put you in a bad financial spot later. Plus with interest rates fluctuating as much as they are, you don't want surprises. Don't set yourself up for failure, trust me on this one!
4. Understand how online listing sites work - this goes hand in hand with agent hopping. If you contact an agent on an online real estate site thinking it's the listing agent and they'll have all the answers, you're probably mistaken. Online listing sites have designated agents who are paying to be posted there. Keep that in mind, especially if you are working with an agent already. Always, always, ALWAYS call YOUR agent when you're interested in a home.
5. Understand the general flow of the entire process - this is what my buyer consultations are for! Plus we set up meetings throughout the process to keep you updated and not overwhelmed. Want to get the entire overview? Let's chat