When you are searching for a new home, I wouldn’t get your hopes up that you will find the right one straight away. Depending on where you live, the market can be full of options or be slim pickings. Narrowing down your search can be difficult. I know there were plenty of times I felt I was compromising, so here are a few tips to help your narrow down your search!
Get PreApproved
The first step you need to take when looking for a new home is to get a preapproval letter from a lender. This looks attractive to sellers and will give you a clearer idea of your budget. You want to make sure that you can comfortably afford your home. Take your preapproval letter to your realtor’s office and talk about the price range of your new home. You don’t want to spend the maximum you can borrow, as this can lead to a mortgage payment you can’t really afford if your income changes. Budget for the unexpected and you should have an idea of the type of home you can afford to buy.
Visit Neighborhoods
If you’re looking to buy somewhere new, you will want to check out the local areas. Sometimes you can’t really get a good feel for a place just from pictures. Drive through a few neighborhoods at different times of the town. One area of town might seem quiet and peaceful during work hours but then turn into a party town at night. Choose a few neighborhoods you like can help to narrow your search.
Talk To The Locals
Are you moving to a city that you don’t know very well? Talk to the locals about the neighborhoods that you are considering. Find local online forums and post to ask about the area. Most people will be happy to share their opinions and experiences. Getting actual advice from people who already live there can help you to make a decision on where you should be looking and where you need to avoid.
Create An Absolutely Yes Or No List
Everyone will have deal-breakers when it comes to purchasing a new home. Maybe you really hate small closets, overlooked gardens, or the color blue. However, perhaps you really need to have three bedrooms, a large garage, or want a pool in the backyard. Make a list of all things you really hate and the things you really need. Give this list to your real estate agent. They can go over the list of available properties they have and match you with homes with fit into your lists.
Do Your Research
There are a lot of great home search sites out there, from sites like Zillow to individual real estate agent’s sites (click here to continue your search). These sites can help you to create lists of your favorite homes, look at properties in different areas, and pass the information along to your realtor. Don’t rely only on these home sites, as the sheer number of properties can be overwhelming. Real estate search sites can help you get a sense of what you like, where you want to live, and the prices you can expect.
I have full confidence you will find the house of your dreams. Did I miss anything? What are some tips you have for those on the hunt for a new home?
