Moving can be an extremely rewarding experience. However moving can be stressful, so don't add to the hassle. To make the house-hunt a little less stressful, consider the following tips:
1. Determine what you want upfront - stick to your criteria.
What are your non-negotiables? What location do you desire? What educational opportunities are important? What do you want your daily commute to be? And what price are you willing to pay? The first step to avoid house hunting drama is to really sit back and think about what is most important to you. Narrow your scope, so you're not looking at hundreds of homes. Focus on the homes that fit your criteria. Looking in an area that’s not going to provide the home type that you want is going to cause frustration.”
2. Get preapproved for a mortgage.
Avoid delays once you do find a home by getting your loan preapproved. If there is any issue, it is identified early on in the process and not the moment that you’re trying to submit a contract on the property. Time and again, we've had unprepared buyers and they've lost their 'dream home'. Know your numbers and how much to expect on a monthly payment to make sure you’re house-shopping within your price range.
3. Communicate.
Share your biggest stressors and fears you have in the home-buying process. The more open you are with me (your agent) the less drama is going to present itself in the transaction. Trust your real estate team, and consider us an ally.
4. Don’t linger too long.
Procrastination causes drama! For home buyers on a deadline, consider beginning the house hunt process 3-4 months ahead of time, to educate yourself on the market. Keep an eye on rising mortgage rates, and know how that will impact your bottom line. Buyers who wait too long may find what they can afford lessen. Have the right expectations, or else you’re setting yourself up for frustration.
