7 First Time Homebuyer Tips

You've made the decision to buy a home, and you're so excited — or at least you think you are! You've probably been scrolling social media platforms trying to decide exactly what you want in your first home. After finding the right realtor, you are on your way to homeownership. There are many steps in buying a home, and it can be quite a bit to navigate, especially for first time buyers.

Here are seven top tips for first time buyers as you embark on this exciting journey!

1. Find the Right Realtor: Finding the right realtor is one of the most important steps in buying a home because the agent you choose should have your back. Your agent should know exactly what you want and work hard to get you just that. They should be upfront, open, honest, and knowledgeable about every detail of the process. Having someone like this in your corner is a must-have, especially for first time buyers... And you should call us before you pick an agent!! 

2. Get Pre-approved: Getting pre-approved tells you exactly what's possible. It helps you set your budget and shows you what you can afford. Before you start shopping for homes, you'll need this! If you're not sure where to start, we can guide you in the right direction and help you get approved quickly!

3. Create a 'Must Have' List: This list is helpful for both you and your agent. It should lay out exactly what you're looking for in a home. You can add nonnegotiable items such as number of beds and baths, and extra items that you'd like to have such as walk in closets, double vanities in the master, a fenced yard, etc. — whatever you want and need from a home should be on this list.

4. Don't Shop for Homes Solely Based on Price: When you start shopping for homes, you'll want to look at homes in your price range and budget. Don't let that be the sole factor in submitting an offer. While, yes, you want the home to be in your budget, you'll also want the home to have some of your 'must haves' from the list you created.

5. Do Your Research: Before submitting an offer on a home, you'll want to do some research on the area and neighborhood that your potential first home is in. Things you look at might include amenities, distance to town and/or jobs, sexual predators in the area, school districts, parks, etc. You should want to know these details because buying a home is one of the biggest purchases you will make in your life, so you want to make it a good one.

6. Shop Mortgage Lenders: Finding the right lender is just as important as finding the right agent. Have lenders pull fee sheets for you on the same property and compare the numbers they give you for money to pay at closing and the interest rate. You'd be surprised at the difference in numbers that different lenders pull for you. Saving money is the ultimate goal, so you should choose a lender that helps you save money!

7. Most Importantly, Ask Questions: Asking questions is the best thing you can while buying a home. Your agent can help answer any and all questions you have. If you're unsure about terminology, why something is being done, or what the next step is, simply ask. This is the best way to learn the process.

You're on your way to buying your first home, so enjoy it! This is an exciting time for you and it's a great investment for your future. Use the right agent, find what you want, and get into that new home!