I recently worked with a first time homebuyer. She was a referral with perfect credit, cash in the bank & a stable, good paying job. As a first time buyer she was very excited and stressed at the same time. She had a ton of questions, as well, she should have. Buying a home is a big deal!! I like working with first time homebuyers because they ask questions, the basic ones. They tend to listen to your answers and value professional opinions. It reminds me they are all pretty much in the same boat. In need of our guidance.
If you haven't bought a home before it can be an overwhelming experience. There is a lot of ground to cover and things can happen fast once the ball gets rolling.
One the first things I cover with my clients is pre-approval. There is nothing more frustrating or heartbreaking than finding the perfect home only to learn you don't qualify for the necessary financing. It's a huge let down for both of us! So...get qualified, with a loan officer who listens to what you're looking for and who takes the time to answer your questions. Regardless of how many you may have.
Once you know what you're qualified for, sit down and write down what you really need in a new home. How much space do you really need? Remember the bigger the home the more to clean!! Are you looking for a fixer upper or newer the better?? How important are the schools, distance to your employer and/or relatives? And of course what kind of time frame do you have to work with? Is your lease about to expire, are you being transferred, or are you do you have some time to find your new home?
Once you are out looking at homes with your buyers' agent ask questions! Your buyers' agent is working for you, looking out for your best interests & wants to assist you in finding the right home. Ask whatever comes to mind the good, the bad & the ugly. The only stupid question is the question unasked at this point.
After previewing some homes, it's time to narrow down your choices. This is where the little things make the difference. Floor plan, paint, carpet, etc. tend to sway potential buyers when it comes down to the nitty gritty.
Once you make an offer & it is accepted (yea!) - Get your home inspected! This is very important so you know ahead of time the potential boo-boo's this new home might have. Your buyers' agent can help you negotiate repairs to be completed prior to close. But you need to know ahead of time! The inspection can save you time, money, energy & tears down the road.
Your buyers' agent is with you every step of the way from beginning to end working on behalf of you, with you and for you. You will be spending a great deal of time in person & on the phone with your buyers agent. Make sure you find a buyers agent that you are comfortable with, has time for you, LISTENS to you & is looking out for you!
_______________________________________________________________________________________________ Looking for a home in or around San Antonio? Looking to take advantage of the $7500 housing stimulus?
Call an agent who knows & loves the area Kristin Moran 210-313-7397 or Kristin@KristinMoran.com
Kristin Moran
Specializing in San Antonio & surrounding cities
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RE/MAX Access - Realtor®/Owner
KristinMoran@Remax.net 210.313.7397 www.SistersThatSell.com
Buy a home from me, use the truck to move for free!
