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Take a
look at your credit report - Unless
you're purchasing with cash, you'll
soon be working on financing.
Know what to expect and clear up any
"issues" you might come across. |
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Develop a budget - By preparing a
budget while you are looking at
homes, you can better focus on
mortgage payment goals and how the
new house will affect your total
expenses |
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Begin
to familiarize yourself with the
terminology
you'll be hearing during your home
buying process. Real estate
agents, mortgage companies and
attorney's can use some intimidating
phrases - get to know them, it'll
make it easier! |
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Start
browsing for mortgage companies.
Compare rates and terms amongst the
different companies. Consider
obtaining a prequalification to find
out precisely how much money you
have to work with, and it also shows
the seller that you are serious and
able to purchase his/her home. |
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As you
go out and begin speaking with real
estate agents, be sure you
understand how "agency" works.
In our area just about every agent
is a "sellers agent", meaning they
represent the seller and his/her
best interest. A "buyers
agent" represents the buyer, and is
dedicated to your best interest. |
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Find and choose an agent. Keep
in mind the
benefits of using a buyers agent
as opposed to a sellers agent! |
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Assess your home needs vs. wants.
Start browsing real estate
publications, and websites and begin
to get a feel for what the current
market has to offer. |
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Once you've narrowed your options,
arrange for a professional home
inspection. |
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Set your closing dates and make
moving plans! |
Equal Housing Opportunity