#GRGoffice | First Time Home Buying 101

“I would love to own a home…but I don’t even know where to begin.”

This is the statement I hear most often once I tell people what I do for a living. We live in a time where there are more options for first-time homebuyers than ever before, but many people still believe that homeownership is too difficult to attain, or they are simply too overwhelmed with the process.

In our experience, we have determined that purchasing a home can be not only stress-free, but enjoyable! The trick is hiring the right team of experts to work for you, with you, and on your behalf. Following these four steps will provide you with a fabulous home-buying experience from start to finish:

1. Find a lender you love, and get pre-approved. Most people will tell you that getting pre-approved is the first step. I see that bet, and raise it; the first step is to find a lender you actually like working with. Not only will you be spending quite a bit of time talking to this person, but they will be solely responsible for guiding you through one of the largest financial investments of your life. Take note of their schedule; will they be available by phone and text message when you need them? Do you feel comfortable discussing all aspects of your financial situation with them? Upon receiving recommendations from friends and family, do your due diligence: a bit of online stalking and reading reviews can go a long way in saving you from a potential disaster.
    
2. Once pre-approved, find a realtor you love. Once you have your financing in order with a rockstar lender, it’s time to start house-hunting with a rockstar real estate agent. When hiring a realtor to represent you, the same rules apply! It’s crucial that you choose someone you not only enjoy spending time with, but whom you trust to draw up legal contracts on your behalf and best represent your interests in a large financial transaction. Take note of their communication style and availability, and ensure you’ll make a good team. The importance of doing your research cannot be overstated; don’t hesitate to look them up online and read feedback from previous clients.
    
3. Make a list of new-home must-haves. The perfect home likely doesn’t exist, or isn’t for sale! Making a list of characteristics that are most important to you is the best way for your real estate agent to find and show you homes you’re actually interested in. If you decide ahead of time what your priorities (and deal-breakers) are, you’ll enjoy more clarity in the decision-making process.
    
4. Once you’ve placed an offer on your new home, hire a trusted inspector. A home inspector’s sole job is to get into the nooks and crannies of the home, and provide you with a very comprehensive report on its condition. A great home inspector will also personally walk you through the home and explain its unique characteristics, suggested maintenance instructions, and show you how to “use” the house and all of its features. Some of the best home inspectors I know are still on speed dial whenever I have a question about my house, and they are always happy to help.

Together, we teach a complimentary Home-Buying 101 class once per month in an effort to educate first-time homebuyers and reduce the stress and anxiety around this journey. We go over the process from pre-approval to closing, as well as provide information on Washington’s Down Payment Assistance programs. If you’re interested in purchasing your 1st -or 5th- home, we’re here for you!

Home Buying 101 Event
Located at Greene Realty Group
Sunday October 27th from 10am-3pm