Finding the right home for you and your family is a rare experience, and because it is, you should make it as enjoyable as possible. However, you must remember you are probably also making the largest expenditure of your life, and careful considerations should be made.
1) You should first contact a lender to determine what size of the home will comfortably fit your budget and lifestyle. This will enable you to narrow down your search to a specific price range.
2) Once a price range has been established, contact a Real Estate Agent to guide you in determining what your housing needs are. Your budget finalization will provide confidence to your real estate agent in drawing up an offer if you like a house.
3) The location will play a big part in a home’s desirability. Your Real Estate Agent will have the information and experience to provide you with information on the areas that you can target within your budget. You should take into consideration commuting time to work, shopping areas, schools, and churches. You may also want to consider the availability of public transportation.
4) You should consider the overall growth potential of the community. A community that is rapidly growing will ensure good appreciation on your home, but may also mean higher property taxes in the near future.
5) Once you decide the areas of choice discuss with your real estate agent about viewing properties. Keep a list with you to compare different properties. Provide your real estate agent with feedback so that they specifically keep your requirements in mind while showing future properties.
6) The secret to house hunting is to take your time. Do not hesitate to turn on lights and open closet and cupboard doors. Relax and take in as much as possible. Remember, this may be your new home, and you would not want to be disappointed when you move in. Also, keep in mind that the perfect home has never been built, and you will probably have to compromise on some of the extras you are looking for. Be sure to take notes as you go through each house for comparison later.
7) House-hunting should be a pleasant experience and will be if you spend a little time in preparation rather than trying to run in many directions at once.
