Tips on Buying your new home
Buying a home is one of the largest decisions of your life. Here are some tips to help make the process easier
Interview several real estate sales representatives
Talk to at least three real estate sales representatives to see which one might be the best fit for your needs. Factors to consider is their experience, services they provide and their approach to buying.
Discuss your needs with your sales rep.
Once you find the right person to help you find a home, it is extremely important to communicate to them exactly what you are looking for. What size of home are you looking for? Do you want to live in town or our in the country? How many bedrooms? The more information you can share with your sales rep. the smoother the transaction will go.
Read and understand everything you sign
Before you sign anything ensure you understand what you are signing. Ask questions and if you still aren’t clear about something on a document have it reviewed by your lawyer.
Have your potential home inspected
Hiring a home inspector and having your offer conditional on a home inspection will help to ensure that there are no surprises in store for you with your new home.
Get Pre-Approved
Talk to your bank or mortgage broker and get pre-approved for financing. This will help to give you a home buying budget and what type of home you can afford. Once you do find a home you want to put an offer on, you can do so more confidently.
Don’t get emotional
Buying your first home is a major decision, but try to not let your emotions get in the way of making smart decisions. Don’t fall in love with a home you can’t afford and don’t waive conditions in your offer designed to protect your interests (home inspection for one)
Budget for unexpected costs
There are a great many costs associated with owning a home, so establishing a budget and having an emergency fund can be very important. Try to figure out all the associated costs involved with your new home (property taxes, water, heating, hydro, insurance , cable/internet, maintenance and repairs) and ensure you can afford your new home while living a lifestyle that is acceptable to you.
