It's a seller's market. If you're a buyer, that can be frustrating, especially if you're a first time home buyer.
In a realtor.com article entitled, “How to Find Your Dream Home—Without Losing Your Mind,” the author highlights some steps that first-time homebuyers can take to help carry their excitement of buying a home throughout the whole process.
1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage Before You Start Your Search
This is a must! Show you are serious about buying a home and get pre-qualified for a mortgage before starting your search. Understanding your budget will give you the confidence of knowing whether or not your dream home is within your reach.
This step will also help you narrow your search based on your budget and won’t leave you disappointed if the home you tour, and love, ends up being outside your budget!
2. Research and Choose a Neighborhood You Want to Live In
Every neighborhood has its own charm. Before you commit to a home based solely on the house itself, the article suggests test-driving the area. Make sure that the area meets your needs for “amenities, commute, etc. and then spend a weekend exploring before you commit.” Remember, inventory is tight right now, so it might be wise to choose more than one neighborhood to research.
3. Document Your Home Visits
Once you start touring homes, the features of each individual home will start to blur together. The article suggests keeping your camera handy to document what you love and don’t love about each property you visit.
Making notes on the listing sheet as you tour the property will also help you remember what the photos mean, or what you were feeling while touring the home.
Bottom Line
It's a high-paced, competitive market right now. Following the advice of this article can give you an advantage on your path to buying your dream home.
Coldwell Banker Upton-Massamont REALTORS is a locally and woman owned, affiliated office of Coldwell Banker. We have four offices in the Pioneer Valley; South Deerfield, Shelburne Falls, Amherst, and Northampton. Please visit www.coldwellbankerumr.com to connect with a local Coldwell Banker Real Estate Agent.
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