Tips for First Time Home Buyers

Hire a buyer's agent to save you time and money

If you are considering buying a home, hire a buyer's agent. An agent will save you time in finding a home that meets your needs. They can send you listings to view the details and photos before actually setting foot out the door. Also, agents often know of new listings that aren't on the market yet. Besides, the seller is the one that will end up paying the commission, so take advantage of having some representation on your side, it doesn't cost you anything.

Set up the financing for your new home purchaseThink about getting the loan before buying a home. It is smarter to go house shopping with a preapproval letter in your hand. When that day comes along that you want to make an offer, it will make your offer a lot stronger when the seller doesn't have to worry so much as to you having to get financing. Get preapproved now!

Negotiate a successful deal that benefits both parties

Make sure your buyer's agent gives you a list of comparable sales in the area. This will help you determine how much to bid on the home. The last 3 months sales are a good gauge for you to determine what to bid. Remember there are always more details to the offer than just the price. Examples are: how soon you want to move, having a pre-approval, seller's assist, the items you want them to leave in the house. There are many details so be sure so sit back and think of the things that are important to you.

Make home inspections part of the plan

You may want to make your offer contingent on the home inspection. If you find out the home has foundation issues, you may decide against buying it. Having a home inspection will let you know exactly what you are getting into. Some people hate to spend another $300-$500 on the inspection, but it does give you the opportunity to address with the seller the problems of the home. Also, it lets you negotiate the items you would like them to address.

Remember buying a home is a step by step journey, there is no easy way there. There are many hurdles to go over to end up living in your dream home, but if you take them one step at a time, you'll be well on your way to home ownership in no time.