First Time Home Buyer's Guide

The process of buying a home can feel overwhelming and stressful but if you have the right agent by your side it won't be. Here's where to start.

• Step 1 - Finding the right agent should be your top priority, you need an agent that knows the market, knows how to structure a strong offer that appeals to sellers, is a good listener, excellent communicator, pays attention to details and an agent that puts you first. From lenders to contractors to legal advice, your agent should have all the resources you need to help you navigate through any transaction.
• Step 2 - Get your preapproval letter from a lender, it's important to know your budget before you start house hunting, all time low intrest rates coupled with low inventory can mean multiple offers from other equally motivated buyers, you need to be prepared to win in this competitive market. Remember, if you're trying to get prequalified, then this isn't the time for major purchases, and don't cancel any credit cards, and do stay current on bill's. Higher Credit Scores = Lower interest rate.
• Step 3 - Visit homes. Take notes and pictures, I like to have a pros & cons sheet for each home. Knock on neighbors' doors or if you see them working in the yard let them know you're interested in buying the house next door. Ask them friendly questions regarding noise, safety, things to do, are there kids in the neighborhood and anything else that matters to your decision. Most people love to share all the things they love about their neighborhood.
• Step 4 - Find a house you love and that checks at least your top 3 wants, needs and must have.
• Step 5 - Make an Offer. This is where you need to execute decisively and quickly!! Time is of the essence especially when inventory is low and a competitive bid can steal your dream home out from under you at the last minute. If you intend to win you need to make a strong offer, your agent will help establish the market value for the home and structure an offer that will appeal to the seller and set you apart from other offers, tipping the odds in your favor.
• Step 6 - Congratulations your offer was accepted!! Now what?! Inspections are critical for you to find out if there are any surprises lurking in the plumbing, electrical, and anything else from the foundation to the attic.
• Step 7 - Make a final walk through to make sure the seller has followed through on all of their obligations and to make sure that there are no new issues that suddenly appeared.
• Step 8 - After closing it's time to get the keys, please remember to take a family picture on the day you get the keys to your new home, that is a memory worth capturing!