Looking to buy a house? If this is your first time, it can be arduous, scary and time consuming. Well, I’ll tell you something. It doesn’t have to be frightening, and it can be a lot easier. It’s all about making a decision based upon the best information provided. Where do we begin?Location
I’ll say it three more times: Location, Location, Location Do you know where you want to live? Is the area great for you and a loved one? Are you looking for a home to start a family? Would this home be just for you? Ask yourself those questions. Take your time in creating an answer. If it’s something that’s worth doing, it would be wise to do it right. Imagine this: Moving in with your significant other and your lovely child and it turns out that you’re right next to a frat house. Or better yet, a young single entrepreneur moving into a block filled with families wouldn’t be the best idea. Waking up at 2am due to a baby crying may cause some issue. Hence why there is a need to find a proper location for you. Once you have a location in mind, do your research. Take a look around. Make trips, ask around and get a feel for the area. Understand that the area could be your home for the rest of your life.
Design
Do you have an idea of what your future home should look like? Not everyone wants a house with blue shudders with a white picket fence. Some people just want three bedrooms and two baths. Others just want two bedrooms and two baths. Then there are those who are looking for a house with a very big yard, or a very big pool. Think about it. Be thorough. Be specific. Now your exact match may not be found, but take a look at those closely resemble your vision. After that, head inside and tour. Make sure that everything works properly. Walk around and ask how it feels. Do you have a good feeling? Does this feel like home? Don’t get too attached with the appearance. Someone once said, “Never judge a book by its cover.” Keep that in mind.
Finance
This may be sound a bit obvious, but seriously make sure that everything is looking good. Banks will conduct an extensive financial background check. Make sure that you are in good standing. Confirm that payments have been received, but most importantly, check to see if they are on time. Your credit rating needs to be GREAT. The bank doesn’t take too kindly to average to low credit ratings, missed or late payments. Furthermore, it looks bad to be rejected by a bank when applying for a loan. If you are responsible with your finances, and something on your record appears to be questionable then have it checked out. Think of your finances as your personal health. If you’re feeling under the weather then take the proper precautions.
Realtor
Do you need a realtor? That is the question. Most importantly, understand that this is just a suggestion. You are not required, but it does help. In the event that you are having trouble finding your dream house then a realtor can help. Realtors have contacts plenty of listings. To find the best realtor for you, do your research. Ask around; ask friends, coworkers, and associates. Nothing beats a personal reference. Another way to find a realtor is to simply utilize the Internet. Look for reviews and make sure that that person is licensed to practice.
I like that you talked about how you must consider making trips to the location of the house to make a feel for the area because the house that you will buy could be your home for the rest of your life. My husband and I are looking to buy a bigger house for our growing family. It’s important for us to make sure that we will end up buying the house that will best suit our needs and wants throughout the years to come. It will make sense for us to visit the location of the house that we’ll consider to help us make an informed decision.