Whether you’re a seasoned buyer or a first-timer, purchasing a home will be life-changing. It’s too early to tell, however, if it’s going to be a smooth or stressful occasion. Let this to-do list guide you to ensure the best possible home buying experience.
- Improve your credit score.
Buying a home requires you to secure your financing, and in order to do so, a great (or even passing) credit score is a must. Even before you start your home search, request for your credit report to see areas of improvement. This allows you plenty of time to take care of any issues, such as outstanding debts or even identity theft. If your credit score leaves a lot to be desired, settle balances and take measures to receive a rating enough to secure a mortgage pre-approval.
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage.
If you’d like for the seller of your dream home to take notice of your offer, a pre-approval letter from your preferred lender is your golden ticket. While it’s not an actual approval for a loan, getting pre-approved means your chosen lender is willing to let you borrow money. This is a good sign for sellers– aside from implying your capability to buy a home, it also sends the message that you are a serious buyer and that you’ve already taken steps to secure financing
- Determine the type of home you want (and can afford).
Before you shop for a home, sit down and figure out exactly what kind of home you’re looking for. Would you prefer to live in the city or the suburbs? Do you have a preference for a certain architectural style and property type? Are there any specific home features you’d consider as a must-have?
- Hire a real estate agent.
While it’s entirely possible to buy a home by yourself, none can ever match the knowledge and expertise of a local realtor. By working with one, you open your doors to various home matches, one (or some) of which might even tick all the boxes of what makes your dream home. In addition, a local realtor, particularly one who specializes in your preferred area or region, can help you negotiate for the best price and take care of other important paperwork and processes.
- Don’t forego home inspections.
After you’ve made a solid offer on the property you like, contact a professional home inspector. You should be able to know if there are any structural problems or safety hazards that exist in the home before you close the transaction. Major ones such as faulty electrical wiring or leaking pipes can be deal breakers, while others can be used to drive the asking price significantly lower. If you want to save more time, bring a home inspector with you while shopping for a home. This will allow you to make an offer and negotiate accordingly to the state of the home.
- Conduct a final walk-through.
Once all repairs or renovations are done, conduct a final walk-through of the property. Check the appliances, plumbing, and other features, especially those that were once raised as issues during the inspection. If everything is deemed satisfactory, have your realtor set a closing date.
Buying a home in Contra Costa County and the Greater East Bay Area?
Get in touch with Marquee Real Estate today by calling 415-813-2060 or sending an email to jsaberi@marqueerealestate.net.