5 TIPS FOR FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS

5 TIPS FOR FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS

Buying a home for the first time can be a daunting task, however, there are many steps you can take to make the entire process easier. Below you’ll find some tips to follow if you’re buying a home for the first time.

  1. Improve Your Finances
    Before you start shopping for your first home, make sure your finances are in a good position. You should start cleaning up your credit and saving up for a bigger down payment. Doing both of these things will help you qualify for a better mortgage rate and reduce the risk of costly fees down the road.
  2. Look into Getting Pre-Approved
    This means that a mortgage lender has already looked into your credit and income, and has approved you for a home loan. Doing so can give you an edge among other buyers, along with sellers who are looking for a smooth deal.
  3. Find a Good Real Estate Agent
    Finding the right real estate agent to help you along with the home buying process can really make the entire process run smoother. Not only will they make things easier, but they can also point out things that you may not have thought of before, such as inspections you’ll need or the best way to negotiate a better price.
  4. Use Technology to Your Advantage
    With so many apps and websites created to help find and buy a home easier, making use of technology should be a no-brainer. Look for homes that aren’t yet on the market, or, find new listings and keep an eye on them. Homes usually drop in price after six weeks on the market, leading sellers to accept offers that are lower than the list price without having to formally drop it.
  5. Be Flexible
    As a first-time home buyer, you can play up your flexibility when it comes to certain aspects of the buying process, such as the move-in date or the closing window. Have your real estate agent get in touch with the sellers to find out exactly what they need and play it to your advantage.

If you’re looking for a real estate agent to help you along with the entire buying process, contact Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. We understand how intimidating buying a house for the first time can be and want to make the process smooth and easy. Give us a call at 803-775-1201 today or visit our website to find an agent.