If you are a first time home buyer and just don’t know where to start, here are a few quick tips to get you started.
Where do I start?
- Be realistic and try to keep your head out of the clouds. It’s the “champagne-taste-on-a-beer-budget” syndrome. Dreaming about that luxurious house with a well-landscaped yard in that desirable neighborhood may not be what you can afford, at least not yet. You have to find out what you can afford.
- Find out what you can afford. The internet is full of mortgage calculators that can give you a general idea. But, just because it says you may be able to afford a certain amount, you still have to feel comfortable making that payment. Try not to overextend yourself and keep in mind there are maintenance expenses that come with home ownership.
- Contact your local realtor. We are here to help you with all your real estate needs. From getting you connected with a mortgage company to get pre-approved for a mortgage, to showing you houses in your preferred areas and price range, to sitting next to you at the closing table and handing you the keys to this next exciting step in your life, your realtor is just as excited as you are to be a part of this wonderful time in your life.
Although taking this step to homeownership can seem very intimidating, your realtor will guide you step-by-step through this process to make your experience a memorable one. Be prepared to take an active role in and work hand-in-hand with your realtor. This is a partnership and we all need to work together to get the best results for you.
And remember, if your realtor did a great job for you, it is always nice to let them know.
Welcome to your new home!
