There is no "right" time to buy. If you find a home you like, don't try to beat all interest rates. Make the effort to purchase now.
Accept the fact that no house is "perfect".
Don't seek too many opinions. Everyone has a different idea on what is right for you.
Allow your Realtor to give suggestions on negotiations. If you like the house you may want to be sure you'll get it.
Go to a lender and get pre-approved. This will help you eliminate some homes and you also might be surprised how much you can afford.
Factor in maintenance of the home when budgeting. There may be repair items you don't expect.
Your first consideration when choosing a home should be that you "love it". Then think about how it might appreciate. Be sure your home is safe and comfortable.
Buying a home can be stressful especially the first time. Accept that buyer's remorse is inevitable - it will pass. Your home purchase can yield big benefits.
Remember to check for the neighborhood amenities and negatives such as parks, pools, noise level, crime, etc.
Work with a Realtor you trust and can relate to. Personalities may clash or may be a significant benefit for you.
Selling a Home
Save time. In a good market, homes can stay on the market 60-90 days. Working with a Realtor can minimize the amount of time your home stays on the market. Your agent will do the research necessary to price your home competitively and effectively.
When you use a Realtor, they will be much more objective regarding the sale of your home. The third party will help you stay focused on business and emotional issues that are most important to you.
Profit. When your home is priced appropriately and your Realtor assists with your negotiation, you will realize your best net profit possible.
Stress. Selling a home can be complicated and in many cases difficult to understand. A knowledgeable Realtor can guide you through the process to help relieve the majority of your stress.
Avoid mistakes. The language of real estate is foreign to many. Your interpreter is your Realtor & let them guide you through contracts and changes in the law.
Tips for First Time Homebuyers
Be choosy, but don't be unrealistic. No home is perfect.
Do homework before you begin looking. Decide what features are important to you.
Make sure your finances are in order. Get a credit report and know how much money you will have for a down payment and closing costs.
Get pre-approved or pre-qualified for a loan. Meet with a lender before you start looking for a home so you know what price range of home you can look at.
Don't seek too many opinions. Everyone has a different idea on what is right for you. Find one or two objective people whose opinions you trust.
Have a date in mind for your move.
If your lease is up in two-three months, then you should begin looking.
Think long-term. Are you looking for a permanent home for your family or a starter home? This will affect the type and size of home you purchase and the type of mortgage you get.
Don't let yourself be house poor. Try not to purchase the largest home you can afford because you will have to maintain, decorate, & furnish the home. This will leave you no money for emergencies.
Check the neighborhood. Drive through the neighborhood at different times of the day to check for amenities and negatives such as, parks, pools, noise level, etc.
Work with a Realtor you trust and can relate to. Personalities may clash or may be a significant benefit for you.
