4 Steps to Buying a Home
When it comes to buying a home, it helps to know what you need to do. Kathy at Shak & Jill offers 4 steps that can make buying a home that much easier.
- Choose an agent. It helps to find what is termed a buyer’s agent. He or she will likely look out for you. Ask friends and relatives if they know a good agent, and interview them. It is important to find a good buying agent as it is to find a good listing agent when you sell. You want an agent that will work hard for you. And the good news is that in this market, a buyer’s agent is at no cost to you. The seller usually pays the closing costs, which includes the agent’s commission.
- Find out what you can buy. This step includes checking with different lenders and getting pre-qualified. Then you need to choose the lender you like best and get home loan pre-approval. This step can make it easier to get the right home mortgage, and it will help you understand the house you can afford. You’ll want to check your credit score too.
- Define your search. Your next step is to let your real estate agent know your search parameters. Be specific. Let your agent know what features you can’t live without, and those that you think are optional. You also need to be upfront with your agent about what you can afford. A good real estate agent will take those search parameters and then only show you homes that fit your needs.
- Be ready to buy when you find your home. If you have followed the steps listed above, you will find that when you do find the right home, you will be ready. The home loan will just need to be finalized. But be patient. You can afford to wait. And, since home prices are actually coming down for the first time in more than 50 years, you are likely able to negotiate for your home.
Tags: pre-approval home loan, home loan, home mortgage loan, check credit score,
steps buying a home, buying a home, real estate agent
