What are you looking for? Do you have a specific timeframe in mind? These are good questions to discuss with your REALTOR.
1. Are you financially Ready? Do you have good credit ? Have you paid your all bills on time for at least one year prior to purchasing a home? Since you most likely will need to get a mortgage to buy a house, you must make sure your credit history is as clean as possible. Before you start house hunting, you may want to get copies of your credit report, make sure the facts are correct, and fix any problems you discover.
2. Before you start house hunting, get pre-approved. Getting pre-approved will you save yourself the grief of looking at houses you can’t afford and put you in a better position to make a serious offer when you do find the right house. Not to be confused with pre-qualification, which is based on a cursory review of your finances, pre-approval from a lender is based on your actual income, debt and credit history.
3. Find a REALTOR that specializes in the area you are looking in. Even with the huge amount of internet access to home listings, most new and experienced buyers are better off using a professional agent to assist in the buying process.
4. Don’t be afraid of a house that needs some TLC. You may come across some houses that need cosmetic work. This does not mean it’s not a good buy. Many REALTORS have a database full of trusted tradepeople that can help you fix up your new home.
5. Make the offer. Be prepared. If you see a home that fits what you are looking for, don’t be afraid to make the offer. A good deal can still go fast. Your REALTOR will be able to assist you in making a suitable offer.
