03/18/2026
If 2026 is the year you're searching for a new home, consider these 5 helpful tips as you begin the process.
🏠 1. Get Pre-Approved Before You Start Looking.
In Maine’s competitive housing market, sellers often prioritize buyers who already have mortgage pre-approval. This helps you act quickly when you find a home.
🏠 2. Budget For More Than Just The Mortgage.
All of these should factor into your budget: property taxes, homeowners insurance, heating fuel (oil, propane, pellets), maintenance and repairs... and more! Closing costs alone typically run 2–5% of the loan amount.
🏠 3. Look For Energy Efficiency.
Winters are long in Western and Central Maine. Consider prioritizing homes with: heat pumps, modern insulation, newer windows, efficient boilers and other energy updates - they can significantly lower your heating costs.
🏠 4. Explore Maine First-Time Buyer Programs
Programs through the MaineHousing can offer low-interest mortgages, down payment assistance, closing cost help and more. Some programs provide around $5,000 in assistance toward purchase costs for qualified buyers.
🏠 5. Work With Seasoned, Reputable Experts.
Don't underestimate the importance of working with knowledgable local real estate agents, local home inspectors, and lenders familiar with rural loans (USDA, etc.). They’ll help you navigate a variety of factors from septic regulations to proper winterization.
At Allied, we're proud to be your Maine Real Estate Experts. Start exploring our listings today. 🔑
https://alliedrealty.net/our-listings