If you are a first-time home buyer interested in beginning your home search, use the guide below for helpful hints and tips when buying your first home. Let us help you find your dream home today!

• Meet & Create a List of Needs & Wants (Buyer Consultation): Make 2 lists. The first should include items you must have (i.e., the number of bedrooms you need for the size of your family, a one-story house if accessibility is a factor, etc.). The second list is your wishes - things you would like to have (pool, den, etc.) but that are not absolutely necessary. Realistically for first-time buyers, you probably will not get everything on your wish list, but it will keep you on track for what you are looking for. Once you have that list, schedule a call or in-person meeting with one of our agents to answer any questions & discuss a plan moving forward. Consider hiring your own real estate agent, one who is working for you, the buyer, not the seller.

• Pre-Qualification: Meet with a mortgage broker and find out how much you can afford to pay for a home.

• Pre-Approval: While knowing how much you can afford is the first step, with Pre-Approval, the buyer actually applies for a mortgage and receives a commitment in writing from a lender. This way, assuming the home you're interested in is at or under the amount you are pre-qualified for, the seller knows immediately that you are a serious buyer for that property.

• Create Listing Alerts Based on Your Criteria: Your agent will create alerts based on the criteria from your wish list & qualifications. You’ll be the first to know when properties hit the market.

• Schedule Viewings & Attend Open Houses

• Find a Home, Write an Offer. Work with your real estate agent to place an offer on a home & be prepared for counter offers. Homeowners can either accept, counter or reject your offer. Once an agreement is made, you will enter escrow.

• We will guide you through the transaction process. Typically, offers include inspection, loan & appraisal contingencies. Expect to sign a ton of paperwork, and do a final walk-through prior to closing.

• Close & get the keys! Celebrate a successful closing & enjoy your dream home.

All the above may seem rather overwhelming. That is why having a professional represent you and keep track of all the details for you is highly recommended. If you’re interested in learning more about the home buying process, so you can navigate your purchase successfully, and get the right home and the right price, reach out to us today.