Buying a new home is undoubtedly one of the most overwhelming things you will ever do, but it is also the most rewarding. Considering how big of an investment it is, it is crucial to plan and exactly know what you want. Once you are clear on the top features you are looking for in your dream home, the process of shortlisting your options as you explore the market is likely to be a lot quicker and hassle-free.
If you are on the hunt for a property you can call home, here are some things you should know:
- Research makes a world of difference
As soon as you’ve decided to go on a house hunt, it is time you start reading newspapers, websites and looking online for real estate listings and purchasing advice. Note down the areas you prefer and check the property prices so that you become aware of the general housing trends of different regions. Start your research early because the more informed you are about the prevailing trends and prices in the housing, the higher your negotiating power.
- Know your budget
You cannot start looking for a home until you know what you can afford. Firstly, homeowners are generally required to put up 10-20 percent of the value of the property as down payment, and you need to have this amount on hand. Next, your credit score will matter significantly, so make sure to improve it if you can before getting in touch with a lender.
We recommend you to get your mortgage pre-approved, so you have an exact budget before you begin your search. You will have to provide your chosen lender with information about your assets and debts for this purpose.
- Note down your priorities
Buying a house is not a short-term commitment; it is one of the most significant decisions you will ever make. Thus, it makes sense to consider your long-term needs and priorities so that you know what to look for when planning to buy one. For starters, you need to know the size of the property, the number of rooms you are after, and any other features such as a garage, backyard, or pool area. If you are looking for a compact 2-3 bedroom space, the mont botanik residence floor plan can guide you better for your perfect architecture. The internet and home improvement magazines are great places to look for ideas and inspiration if you aren’t sure what you are after.
- Work with a reliable realtor
Many people searching for the ideal property do not wish to engage a realtor simply because they want to save the cost. In reality, a trusted realtor has extensive knowledge of the market and can provide a range of options according to your requirements. Not only can they make your search a lot quicker, but a reliable realtor will guide you and work in your interest throughout the buying process, from helping with home inspections to negotiating a fair deal.
- What to look for during home inspections
If you wish to make a good investment, there are four major areas that you should focus on during home inspections to avoid having to deal with costly repairs later on:
Roof: The average roof lasts for 20-25 years before needing a replacement, and roof replacements are not exactly cheap. Make sure to check the condition of the roof and enquire about its age.
Foundation: If the foundation of your chosen property is damaged, it is an immediate red flag. Make sure to check the signs of cracks on your property and inspect the flooring for any unevenness, which indicates significant problems in the foundation.
Energy efficiency:
You need to have the insulation of the property inspected, primarily if it has been constructed years ago as any issues in the insulation could significantly increase your utility bills
- Negotiations are common practice
A home buyer doesn’t have to play the victim or feel inferior to the seller at any cost. Many buyers fail to negotiate on the price or other terms, just because they want to avoid confrontation or disagreements with the seller. But as long as you handle them smartly and professionally, negotiations can help you secure a much better deal. Most sellers and lenders expect the buyer to negotiate before sealing the deal. So, do not shy away from negotiations; they are part of the trade.
The Bottom Line
Buying a home is one of the most significant decisions you will make in your life, so don’t forget to do whatever it takes to be confident with your choice. Do your research, seek help from professionals, and don’t hesitate to take your time inspecting each aspect of the property. Remember, you do not want to regret this decision a few months down the line. Only once you find the property that ticks all the right boxes and meets your budget should you go ahead and sign the deal.
- This is a guest post not written by this website’s owner.