Whether you’re embarking on buying your first home, or purchasing land on which to build your first home, it’s an exciting proposition. It can also be quite stressful, particularly if you aren’t sure where to begin. Thankfully, taking advantage of these tips will get you started on the right foot.
Start With a Realtor®
By working with a locally experienced Realtor®, you are arming yourself with a wealth of resources, including:
- Detailed and up to date knowledge of the local real estate market
- Access to a network of industry professionals, such as mortgage brokers, home inspectors and title insurers
- A trustworthy advocate to negotiate with sellers’ agents on your behalf
- Answers to the many questions you’ll have along the way
A lesser-known benefit for homebuyers is that the services of a Realtor come free of charge. Typically, the buyer’s agent and seller’s agent will split the commission on a real estate transaction, which comes from the proceeds of the sale.
Obtain Mortgage Pre-Approval
Before you start requesting showings, you’ll want to take this important step. The pre-approval process will familiarize you with various types of mortgages and help you select the one that best suits you. Additionally, this is the best way to determine your price range. Once you’ve determined what you have available for a down payment and what you can afford monthly, you’ll have a firm budget to work with.
Mind Your Budget
Once you start looking at homes for sale, it may be tempting to stray ever closer to your upper budget limit, and even somewhat beyond. It’s vitally important to resist the temptation to overextend yourself. Sticking firm to your budget now can save you from falling behind on your mortgage and risking losing the home you so recently fell in love with.
Are You Buying a Home in North Florida?
Whether you’re looking for a new home with owner financing, an equestrian property or any other type of property in North Florida, we can help you find exactly what you need.
Call us at 386-243-0124 or contact us online. We’ll begin a custom search just for you.
