Spring Home Buying Tips
Spring is typically the busiest season for real estate sales. This year, the market has shifted to favor buyers, giving them more negotiating power. Here are a few tips to make the home buying process easier!
Get Full Pre-Approval
There’s no doubt about it, getting full pre-approval from a lender before you shop is the best strategy. With pre-approval, you can save time by only looking at homes that are realistically within your budget. Plus, the seller will take your offer seriously, knowing your deal should close faster because you’ve already got a lender behind you.
Avoid Making Other Big Purchases
Keep your spending in check before your home purchase deal closes. Lenders like to see stability, and making large purchases on credit cards or opening new credit accounts may bring your credit score down. Likewise, using up your cash reserves may change your financial snapshot.
Get to Know the Neighborhood
Take a stroll and see what your target neighborhood is really like. If you have children, schedule tours to the local schools while classes are still in session. This can help you visualize living in that community, and make sure it aligns with your preferences.
Define Your Priorities
Make a wish list to organize your needs. Break it down into “Needs,” “Wants,” and “Would Be Nice” to establish your priorities. This will help your real estate agent steer you to homes that are more likely to meet your expectations.
Recent news indicates there are almost 50% more sellers than buyers nationwide right now, giving buyers an edge. If you, or your friends and family, are ready to buy a home, please don’t hesitate to give me a call and get started with pre-approval!