Helpful Tips for First-Time Home Buyers

by Carrie Reynolds 05/19/2019

Buying your beginning home is one of the significant steps you will make in your life. It can be both exciting and daunting, which cause many first-time home buyers to grab the first home that falls within their budget quickly and others get themselves stuck in a mortgage that they will pay for a better part of the life. Real estate advertisement doesn't make it any easier. Well, you can relax now. Here are six helpful tips to alleviate the burden and mistakes involved in buying your first home.

1. First Things First, Be Prepared. As overwhelming as it seems, you must take a moment to get yourself ready before delving into the first-time home buying process. Take a moment and consider the type of home you want, the amount of money available for the purchase, and the amount of mortgage for which you qualify. You also should figure out how you want to go about the search. Do you need a real estate agent? Do not begin the home-buying process until you satisfy these conditions. 2. Carefully Scout for Your Dream Home. The process of searching for your dream home can be very challenging, which is why I advise first-time home buyers to explore thoroughly. Some home buyers, especially first-time home buyers, give up the search after the second tour. They resolve to rent or settling for just about any home on their list. To alleviate the frustration and stress that comes with the search, employ the service of a real estate agent. You could also search for listings online and ask for recommendations from friends and family. Do not do it yourself. 3. What Financing Options are Available in Your State? Although the program varies by state, every first-time home buyer has a couple of financing options to help them purchase their dream home. It is best to consult with your real estate agent for a suitable financing option. 4. Don’t be Scared to Negotiate the Offer. A common mistake seen among first-time home buyers is that they tend to compare the prices of houses at different locations. That is wrong! The locality of any home has a tremendous influence on its pricing. As a first-time home buyer, it is safest to ask your real estate agent for help. The agent is vastly knowledgeable in the field, as such, is in a better position to conclude the sale at a reasonable price. 5. A Home Inspection is Compulsory! Require a home inspection regardless of how flawless the home appears. Be sure to have a professional inspect every nook and cranny of the house before closing the deal. If you find faults that the seller willingly withheld during bargain the sale could fall through. You could also ask the seller to make repairs to seal the deal. 6. Close the Deal or Move on to the Next Home. There are two options available after inspection. You either close the deal or continue your search for your dream home. If the home inspection went well (that is you like what you saw), then it is time to close the deal. Congratulations on your first home!
About the Author
Author

Carrie Reynolds

I was born and raised in Florida and have lived in the North Florida area for over 30 years. I have been married for 17 years and we have 3 beautiful children. My husband is a professional caddy on the PGA tour and I was a teacher for 13 years before I began pursing my real estate career in 2011. I am happy to help buyers or sellers. Call me if you need help buying, selling, or building new construction. I specialize in several areas: Nocatee, Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Ponte Vedra Beach, Southside of Jacksonville, and all of St. Johns County.