Helpful Advice for First Time Home Buyers

By Andrew Wughin


Start by finding a realtor with experience that you can trust. Look online or ask friends. A strong online presence is a must have for realtors these days and there should be all kinds of social proof online for you to do your due diligence. You should have a good feeling about your realtor and should be able to trust them.

No other single factor affects the desirability and resale value of a home more than location. When in a bad location, your home will not have great resale value when you want to move later, no matter how much you improve it, or maintain your property. A good school system, government services, and community centers are some of the things desirable neighborhoods have going for them.

A home seller knows that a buyer who has gone the pre-approved mortgage screening process is more desirable, so if this is the difference between you and another bidder, this will swing things in your favor. Having this guaranteed in a written document is essential, so that when a deal is being done, no last minute problems will arise.

There have been rule changes for those who have had credit problems that can qualify through less stringent lending policies in recent years, try to look out for situations like this. Some of these programs even call for dramatically reduced down payments.

Budget for extra expenses, such as moving, new appliances and utility hookups. It is tough to estimate exactly, but expect to spend around $500 all in all for your move. Have a budget for the inevitable $150 to up to $250 that it will cost to have your utilities all hooked up. A new home has many challenges, and the mortgage is only one of many. There are many other expenses for home buyers, such as costs for appraisals, inspections, title and mortgage insurance, and there can be other types of fees that you will run across.

The hassle and money you save in time by having a home inspection makes the cost of it well worth it. Your home is one of the most important investments you can make, so be sure to spend what you need to on an expert inspection, hundreds now can save you thousands years from now. You will not notice the kinds damage that an expert can find, since home inspectors hve so much experience, they are able to find damage that has been covered up or hidden. When you do find issues with the home, the inspector can itemize a list and be able to get the seller to reduce the cost of the home by a dramatic amount, this along with other savings, makes it worth it.

Typical inspections cover foundation, electrical, heating, plumbing, floors, wall, ceiling, attic, roof, siding, trim, porches, patios, decks, garage and drainage. When you hire an inspector, make sure you accompany him or her on the tour so you can learn a lot about the home you're thinking of buying. When the inspector gives you the report, if you find it acceptable, then you could make an offer to buy the house. The inspector will only give you a professional opinion on the home's condition, not advice as to whether you should buy or not.




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