Introduction

Buying a home is one of the most important financial decisions you will make in your life. It can be exciting, but it’s also a big responsibility. You need to think about the many things that go into purchasing a home so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not buying is right for you. The following are some helpful tips for making sure your next home purchase is well-informed and as stress-free as possible:

Know Your Mortgage Options

A mortgage is a loan that is solely for helping you finance your property. As with most loans, there are many options available to you:

  • Conventional mortgages
  • Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans
  • VA loans (for Veterans)

Knowing the best option for your financial situation can help you determine your budget when looking at homes to purchase. It’s important to have this number before you start looking so you’re seeing homes that would be available to you in your price range.

Think About Your Future

If you’re buying a home for the first time, or moving into a new home, it’s important to consider your future. Here are some things to ask yourself before making a decision on a home:

  • Does this home fit your needs at this moment?
  • Are you thinking about expanding your family? 
  • Does the home work with expanding your family? How are the schools?
  • Will you be moving again in a few years or do you intend to stay long term?

 

How Old is the Property? Does It Need Any Major Repairs?

When you find a home that you’re considering purchasing, it’s important to check the age of the property. The older a home is, the more likely it is that repairs or upgrades may be needed. Check the age of the roof, air conditioning, and heating units (where applicable), as well as signs of water damage, mold, and signs of pests like insects, rodents, etc.

Inspections can help you determine whether your dream house has any structural issues that need to be addressed before moving in. An inspection can also tell you if there are any major repairs needed, like electrical or plumbing problems, before you make an offer.

*Bonus tip: Check where the rainwater drains outside. Do the gutters channel the water into a safe place or does the yard flood? 

 

Be Willing to Negotiate

Negotiating is a crucial step in the home buying process, especially if you’re looking to buy a home for less than the listing price. What can you negotiate?

  • Price: If the sellers are open to negotiation, they may be willing to lower their asking price or accept an offer below it in order to sell faster. An inspection can help here if there are major repairs or updates that the home needs prior to moving in.
  • Terms: This includes negotiating terms such as interest rates and closing costs. The seller might agree to lower these fees if they want a quick sale on their property.
  • Closing Date: Buyers can also negotiate when they will take possession of their new home by offering another day or week (or longer) before being able to officially sign off on everything related to the purchase agreement.

How’s the Commute?

You should consider the commute to your job and how long it will take. Make sure to factor in traffic during the times that you would be driving, as that can make a seemingly short commute turn into a longer one. Does part of your commute become submerged when it rains or snows? Is there a safe, alternate route when this occurs? How much longer does the alternate route take?

Also, consider the cost of the commute when determining if the home suits your needs. Gas prices may fluctuate, but you can come up with a typical budget for gas, bus pass, etc for commuting to work. Does this change your mind about the home?

Conclusion

Buying a home is a big decision and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. There are many factors that go into the home buying process and what to consider when you find a potential property. 

If you’re looking for a lender, then we’re looking for you! Call The Zion Group today to schedule a consultation call. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Preparing to sell and negotiating a good price for your property is easier with professional help. At the Zion Group, our team of experienced professionals will make the time to listen, plan, and execute your vision for your real estate selling goals. Schedule a free consultation with us today.