1. Find a Realtor who is simpatico.
Homebuying is not just a big financial commitment, it is also an emotional one. The Realtor you choose to work with will be like your BFF during the process. It is critical that you choose someone who is not only skilled but also fits with your personality… someone you trust and feel comfortable working with.
2. Remember, there is no “right” time to buy.
Don’t try to second guess the market or get hung up on interest rates. People buy and sell homes in all financial and market conditions. The “right” time for you to buy is when YOU are ready to buy.
3. Don’t ask for too many opinions.
Remember, you are the one buying the home. You will be the one living there and responsible for the payments. It is natural to ask opinions and want the reassurance of others, but too many opinions can also make it harder to make a decision that is truly your own.
4. Accept that no house is perfect.
It is always a matter of priorities. Focus on what is most important to you and let minor things go. Don’t lose sight of your non-negotiable priorities.
5. Don’t try to be a killer negotiator.
Unless getting a killer deal is your number one priority, don’t lose the house you love by holding out for win-lose terms. Negotiation is definitely part of the process, but win-win transactions when both sides work together usually result in the most satisfied buyers.
6. Remember, your home doesn’t exist in a vacuum.
Don’t get so caught up in a fabulous kitchen that you miss things like the neighbor house in disrepair, the airplanes overhead, the barking dogs next door, and traffic outside your front door. These things may not bother you, make your purchase with your eyes and ears wide open. Always think ahead to resale.
7. Get your financing pre-approval as soon as you are ready to buy.
Once you start looking with the possibility of actually making an offer you never know when you will find your dream home. In this market you must have a financing pre-approval letter in hand before you can make an offer. Don’t risk missing out on the right home for you because your financing isn’t ready.
8. Don’t forget to factor maintenance and repair costs into your housing budget.
Regular monthly housing costs will include your mortgage principal and interest, insurance, taxes and utility costs. But don’t forget to also set aside money for inevitable maintenance costs, repairs and upgrades that most buyers want to do once they have their own home.
9. Accept that a little buyer’s remorse is normal.
It may hit you after coming to a final agreement that you have just made a huge commitment. You may ask yourself, “what have I done?!” This is normal. What isn’t normal is a pit in your stomach when you think “what have I done?!!!” If it doesn’t feel right, listen to your body and get out before going ahead with something that will be a mistake. Our bodies usually know before our brains what is right for us.
10. Choose a home first because you love it.
Although a home is also an investment, its most important role is as a comfortable, safe place to live. Choose a home you will want to come home to… it should be a place that provides you sanctuary both physically and emotionally.
RE/MAX Results HomesMSP Team – info@homesmsp.com
