Purchasing your first home is a celebratory, and sometimes scary, experience. If you are financing your home, there is a lot of paperwork to be done, but don’t let all of that paperwork and red tape get you down. You are not alone! In 2019, 42% of home buyers were first time homeowners. Here are four tips for first time home buyers to make the process smoother.
1. Set A Budget And Stick With It
Before you even start looking at real estate for sale, sit down and figure out how much money you can afford to spend on a home. Set your budget and don’t stray from it. In fact, set a lower end budget and a “we really want this house” budget. That way if you really do have to budge on your price, you already accounted for it in your budget. Then talk with real estate agents in Houston Texas to find real estate listings that meet all of your needs.
2. Research Everyone You Work With
From your mortgage lender to your real estate agent to your inspector, do some background homework on everyone and every company you work with. Read reviews to get an idea of what you’re getting yourself into with them. Buying a home for the first time should be a memorable experience, so make sure you’re working with real estate agents you trust.
3. Take Pictures Of Everything
When doing a walk-through of
real estate for sale, take pictures of every room from as many angles as possible. This can help you envision your own furniture in the room later or help you when deciding to buy new furniture. This is also an opportunity to note any damage prior to moving in. You’ll want to know if you have any money coming out of your pocket upfront, so take plenty of pictures and make good notes on them!
4. Enjoy The Process And Be Patient
Trust the process, which means that things can and will go wrong. Everything will be okay. Your realtor will be there to guide you through any financing delays, inspection mishaps, and seller shortcomings. Be patient, because there are always delays. And then there are delays for the delays. So, again, be patient and just enjoy the process of buying your first home.
Real estate for sale doesn’t have to be a daunting process. It can be simple and relaxing if you just follow these four tips: set a budget and stick with it, research everyone you work with, take pictures of everything, and enjoy the process and be patient. Buying your first home is like a walk in your local Houston park!