Buying a home is a significant investment emotionally and financially….but most of all it should be a rewarding and fun adventure. Here are a few of my tips to make the home-buying process both fun and educational.
1. GOOD INFORMATION…..Take time to understand the real estate market you are interested in and the home-buying process. Gather good information….Good information will lead to a good buying decision.
2. KNOW YOUR NUMBERS…..I cannot stress this enough…KNOW ALL YOUR NUMBERS….Educate yourself about different types of loans. Consult with your financial advisors. Know what you can afford. ONLY LOOK AT HOMES YOU CAN AFFORD…keep in mind it takes money to move and you will need some cash left over for small repairs…..KNOW YOUR NUMBERS.
3. EXPLORE THE NEIGHBORHOOD……Include visiting schools, local shops, parks, and community centers, as well as speaking to residents. A basic knowledge of the area will help you choose a location that fits your lifestyle. Strike up a conversation with a police officer….visit the chamber.
4. LET YOUR HOME TALK TO YOU…..as you view homes imagine it as your” future” home. Create a vision in your mind and design your ideal living space and life. Will this home work for you now and will it morph into the home you have always dreamed of…Designing your ideal home can and often is, a long term project…Move into your home and then let your home talk to you…(my husband wishes our home would shut up).
5. HOUSE HUNTING IS AN ADVENTURE…..Visit open houses and enjoy the process of finding the perfect home. Approach each viewing with curiosity and an open mind, appreciating the uniqueness of each property you see. Ask questions at open houses.
6. CELEBRATE THE PROCESS from getting approved for a mortgage to receiving your home’s keys. Acknowledge the moments that make your journey special. Every home buying story is different.
7. WORK WITH A PRO…..Work with a good LOCAL realtor…..a local realtor will be knowledgeable of the market and area. Choose someone you like and who understands your needs. Too many buyers use a realtor that has no knowledge of the area….in my opinion that is a mistake.
8. BE PATIENT…..finding the right home can take time. Maintain a positive outlook…..your home is out there.
9. EXPECT SURPRISES…..surprises are going to happen…a good realtor should be able to keep bad surprises to a minimum. But nevertheless…surprises happen.
Balancing the serious aspects of home buying with enjoyable activities will make your home-buying process both exciting and fun. If you are looking for a home and don’t yet have an agent in Indian River County, I would love to be a part of your very special and memorable journey.
