The current real estate market is a buyer's market, and a cheap one at that. With all the homes for sale, there is plenty of variety in square footage, style and price range for even the pickiest buyer. Still, even if the time to buy is now, there are some guidelines any first time or seasoned buyer should know. Buying a home is simple when you know what steps to take before moving.
Buy A Home To Live In
Finding a dream home means living in it -- why buy a home if you cannot commit to staying in it for a few years? The transaction costs of buying and selling a home alone will set you back quickly. If you move a lot for work, consider renting a smaller place and putting money aside for the big home purchase later.
Additionally, buy a home with a worthy neighborhood. Location, location, location is a cliche, but it is certainly not a joke. Look for homes in great school districts, because whether or not you have children, good districts are a priority for buyers. Living in one immediately increases the value of your home.
Buy An Affordable Home
Buying a home is rewarding and an occasion to celebrate, but only if you have the money to back up the purchase. If you find yourself yearning for a four-bedroom three-bath that you cannot afford, you could end up like so many homeowners who are struggling to make the monthly payments.
The general rule is to buy a house priced two-and-a-half times your annual salary. Take into account any debts or expenses you have that could really affect affordability. Try using an online calculator to help determine mortgage payments and other costs associated with buying a home. Get copies of your credit report, fix any errors and make sure your credit history is as clean as it can be before going to see a lender about which homes you can feasibly afford.
Buy A Home With Professional Help
While Internet access guarantees the ability to browse real estate listings in any area in the country, buyers will need an agent, a mortgage lender and possibly a real estate attorney to purchase property. The process of buying a home is confusing and difficult, which is why there are professionals in the real estate industry to help.
Hire a reputable agent with a proven track record who can develop a bidding strategy with you. Shop around for a lender with the lowest interest rate and get pre-approved before house hunting. Have your agent help you find out what the prices of homes sold for in the area are so you can bid accordingly. If you are truly serious about a house, hire a home inspector separate from the bank to point out potential costly repairs. By following these easy tips, you will be able to find the perfect home at a great price with a good mortgage plan to match.
