Buying a home is an exciting yet daunting experience, but not to worry because here are some easy steps to help get you started in the home-buying journey.
Step 1: Meet with your lender
They’ll be able to assess your financial and credit status. Rule of thumb: the higher your credit score, the lower the interest rate on your home loan. Your lender will also be able to help you assess your home buying price range.
Step 2: Save for the down payment
Your down payment will usually range from 5%-20% of the cost of the home. The percentage varies based on what you have saved,and your loan type. Your lender will be able to help answer your down payment questions.
Step 3: Decide on your must-haves
And which of them are within your budget. Unfortunately, the chances of getting everything on your list is slim, pick your top 3 non-negotiables and stay open minded about the rest.
Step 4: Call in the experts
A good real estate agent is your confidant, ally, negotiator, mediator, and voice of reason. Let them know what you want, ask for their input and ideas. Your agent does this everyday and will have great feedback for your home-buying journey.
Step 5: House hunting time!
Get out there and find your home. House hunting can be so fun once you’ve checked all the boxes: become pre-qualified, have a good amount saved towards the down payment, know the territory, and have an awesome buyer’s agent on your side.
Step 6: Make an offer
You’ve found a great home. Have your agent help you make a competitive and realistic offer that you can afford. A good realtor won’t let you get carried away and bid too much; and will also advise against low-balling as that’s not a strong negotiation tactic in the real estate industry.
Step 7: Inspection Time
You’re almost there. Hang tight. Have the home inspected, a good inspector will be able to identify any problems that were not apparent. If there are tons of issues you can pass on the home, if the seller is motivated you can often negotiate getting items on the list fixed before giving final approval.
Step 8: Time to close
You did it. Get your final loan approval, close the loan and move in. Congratulations!
