Purchasing a home is probably the largest financial decision you
will ever make. Whether this is your first purchase or you are
moving on to a different home that better meets your needs,
this decision must be made carefully.
Before the home search begins, your real estate agent will
want to know as much as possible about the features and
amenities you desire. To help your agent better serve you,
divide your preferences into "negotiable" and "non-negotiable."
Here are some details to consider; Exterior - type of home,
age of property, preferences in architectural style, number of
stories, type of foundation, roof construction, lot size and/or
location, landscape preferences, pool and garage. Interior
considerations include number of bedrooms, bathrooms,
minimum square feet, central air/heat, electric or gas
appliances, fireplace, kitchen amenities, formals, office or
study, laundry room, flooring preferences, how much
renovation will you be willing to do and must your home
accommodate any special needs. The finer the details on
your wish list, the more effective your home search will be.
You should divide your lists into negotiable and
non-negotiable items; this will allow some flexibility during
the search, especially as your agent scouts for homes
on your behalf.
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Congratulations on your decision to purchase a new home!
Before you start your home buying journey it is best to clearly
define and understand why you want to buy. Are you tired of
paying rent? Have you outgrown your current home? Do you want
to shorten your commute? Having a clear sense of your reasons
for buying will help you chose the right home.
Where you buy not only affects the home's current and future
value, but it also affects your lifestyle. Your agent will be able to
conduct a more targeted home search if you outline your
preferences in neighborhoods and nearby amenities. Items that
should be considered and communicated to your agent include;
urban, suburban, commute time, school districts, desirable
neighborhoods, proximity to restaurants, retail, airport, and
major highways as well as health care facilities, parks and
length of time you plan to live in your home.
Whether to buy an existing home or have one built is yet another
decision to make during the home-buying process. If you decide
to go with new construction, a real estate agent can be a powerful
advocate in your corner as you negotiate upgrades, a move-in
date and other terms with the home builder. Things to consider in
this area are selecting a builder, using your real estate agent to
work directly with the builder representative, and understanding
the timing of new home construction.
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