Tips For The First Time Home Buyer

Getting-the-KeysPurchasing a home can be overwhelming for some. From house hunting, to the paperwork, the down payment, and even to the point where you are moving into your new home there is a lot do. Make sure you are prepared for what to expect during the home buying process.

 

Here are 5 tips for the First Time Home Buyer

 

1. Do some research

Sounds obvious right? But so many buyers go into it blind. Although there are many professionals that will help you along the way, you will only help yourself if you do a little research before and during your home buying process.

So what kind of research? Use the internet to…

  • Search for neighborhoods

  • Research home styles

  • what you might like or dislike in your next home

  • school districts

  • neighborhood features

  • different activities in these areas

 

2. Have an idea of what you are looking for

After you do some research, make 3 lists…

List 1: What you HAVE to have

List 2: What you would LOVE to have

List 3: What you DO NOT want

Having these lists will not only make your life easier, but it will allow your real estate agent to show you the homes that best fit your wants and needs. Even the most experienced real estate agents are not mind readers, show them and tell them what you want so they can help you find the perfect home.

 

3. The Cost

There is more to buying a home than just the purchase price. Closing Costs, Inspections, Appraisal, Moving Fees, Homeowners Association, Homeowners Insurance, and other fees are often a surprise to unprepared buyers.

  • Closing Costs

  • Inspections

  • Appraisal

  • Moving Fees

  • Homeowners Association

  • Homeowners Insurance

 

4. Get Pre-Approved

Typically when you write an offer on a home, you will present your loan pre-approval letter. This means you have spoken with a lender and they have run your credit score and information to determine that you are pre-approved for a home loan. You will not be fully approved until a loan application is filed and processed. This does not happen until your offer has been accepted on a home and you go under contract.

TIP: Getting pre-approved for a loan will also give you a chance to interview lenders along the way. Find one you feel comfortable with and of course, ask for referrals!

 

5. Find the right Agent

Having the right real estate agent is so important. No matter if it is your first home or third home, you want to feel comfortable and confident with your pick. So do some research, ask for referrals and interview agents before jumping in with both feet. In the Connecticut and Eastern New York Areas Deborah Laemmerhirt, Your Home Group specializes in First Time Home Buyers! Call today 203-994-4297.


About Deborah Laemmerhirt

Let me assist you in finding everything you need to know about buying or selling a home! As the preeminent real estate professional in my community, I am dedicated to providing the finest service available while breaking new ground. Because the real estate industry is becoming more sophisticated and challenging every day, you need a professional that understands the industry and is positioned to stay ahead of the game. I go the extra mile to help you achieve your goals. That’s why I constantly research the home, market and estate values so your home is priced effectively from day one. I also make sure the public knows your home is for sale by using innovative marketing techniques to attract potential buyers. As an Internet-savvy real estate representative in Connecticut, I’ve had the opportunity to help many home buyers find their ideal homes and many sellers obtain top dollar for their homes. Buying or selling a home is one of the largest financial transactions that most people ever undertake, so I will help you through every step of the process. My goal is to make your home selling or buying experience as easy and enjoyable as possible. My services include: Explaining the home selling and buying process thoroughly Diligently selecting homes that meets your criteria Pricing your home correctly and implementing a unique yet proven marketing plan Negotiating on your behalf Tracking the closing process to ensure a smooth transaction I welcome the opportunity to address any questions you might have about buying, selling or current market conditions. Please call or e-mail me any time, and I will be happy to discuss your next steps in the buying or selling process. I specialize in both Residential and Commercial Properties. I also head a Real Estate Group to provide you with expert service and support. Areas of Expertise Making transitions in your life is challenging. You may be moving from out of town, a different state, internationally or just next door! Regardless of the distance I am prepared to respond to your unique needs.If you are a BUYER looking to downsize, up-size, want a new construction, desire a condominium, to invest, even if this is your first home, I will design a unique plan to fulfill your needs in a reasonable time frame, with the best negotiated price and the least amount of inconvenience.For my Home Sellers, I have an innovative marketing plan that will leave nothing to chance. Just call, and I would be happy to share the DIFFERENT and SUCCESSFUL TOOLS I utilize on each of my listings. I have lived in Connecticut for over 35 years. I practice Real Estate in Fairfield County, New Haven County and Litchfield County. This includes, but is not limited to Bethel, Bridgewater, Brookfield, Danbury, Harwinton, Kent, Litchfield, New Fairfield, New Milford, Newtown, Oxford, Ridgefield, Redding, Roxbury, Sherman, Southbury, Warren, Washington, Westport and Wilton.