Home Buying...Where Do I Start?

Home Buying...Where Do I Start?

Buying a home is scary, no doubt. Unless you have parents or friends that have purchased a home recently (and you were present for the entire process), you probably don’t know where to begin in your search to find the “perfect home.” I have many people come to me and ask “Jessica, where do I even start?”  Because buying your home will probably be the largest purchase you make in your life, I think you should be completely educated on the entire process. My obvious answer to what your first step should be is to find a good Realtor ® *hint, hint!*

But seriously…The MAIN reason I suggest this is because of experience. Realtors ® see this process on a daily basis, and we know how to properly assist you in this important purchase. It always helps to have someone working for YOU. Wouldn’t you want someone in your corner looking out for your best interest?

Another good place to start on your journey to purchasing a home would be to talk to a lender. Most home purchases are not made with cash but through financing. Starting at your local bank or a mortgage company will help you know where to begin your home search, financially. Once you know the total amount you can afford, you can spend more time looking for a home and less time worrying if you’re looking in the right price range. Even if you’re not ready to purchase yet, talk to a lender. They can help get you get your credit “ready” to buy a home.

Worried about not having the traditional 20% to put down? There are several loan programs that don’t require a large down payment. Check with your local lender to see what products they offer. Different banks and mortgage companies offer various loan products that can get you into a home for less than what you think.  You might be closer to owning a home than you realize!

If all else fails, turn to the internet. Let’s face it...the internet can make anyone an expert. If you’re even thinking about buying a home, research EVERYTHING! Researching online can be a great, “no-pressure” way to look at local housing inventory, learn about the buying process and discover loan different loan products. My favorite websites to recommend to clients are Realtor.com or TexasRealEstate.com. Spend some time looking at different websites and find one that you like. Just remember, you can’t believe everything you read online. Cue the State Farm “French Model” commercial.

Buying a home can feel exciting and terrifying, but is definitely rewarding. Find a real estate professional you feel comfortable with, and let them guide you through this process. Now that you know where to start, let the home buying process commence!

Signed,

Jessica Holmes
Realtor ®, Mobbs Real Estate Group