10 Best-Kept Secrets for Buying a Home

by Jan Richey | February 11, 2013

There are so many things to consider when buying a home.  Finances, location, and aesthetics are all at the top of a buyer’s mind.  But what should you really think about when making a purchase?  Here are the highlights of 10 home-buying tips thanks to HGTV.com.  Read the entire article here.

1. Stalk the Neighborhood. Make sure the home and the neighborhood are perfect for you!
2. The Secret Science of Bidding.  Look what other houses have gone for in the neighborhood and bid based on what you can afford and what you believe the property is really worth.
3. Give Your House a Physical. Hire a home inspector.  It could end up saving you thousands of dollars.
4. You’re Buying a House – Not Dating It. Go with your instincts, not your emotions.
5. Avoid Sleeper Costs. There are huge differences in buying and renting a home. Prospective homeowners should be prepared for not only mortgage payments, but also other expenses such as property taxes, utilities, and repairs and maintenance costs.
6. Bigger Isn’t Always Better. The largest house on the block only appeals to a small audience and you don’t want to limit the number of potential buyers at the time of re-sell.
7. Don’t Try to Time the Market. The best time to buy is when you find the perfect house that you can afford. Anticipating the market is impossible.
8. Avoid a Border Dispute. Get a survey done on your property so you know exactly where your property lines are located.  You want to avoid potential disputes with neighbors in the future!
9. Get Pre-Approved for Your Home Loan.  There is a difference in being pre-qualified and pre-approved.  Pre-approved means a lender has evaluated your finances and informed you of how much you can afford and how much they will lend.  Knowing this in advance will ensure you look at homes in your price range.
10. Keep Your Money Where It Is. Don’t make any huge purchases or move money around three to six months prior to purchasing a home. You don’t want anything to affect your credit profile.

The members of The Jan Richey Team have over 115 years of combined real estate experience and are dedicated to finding the perfect home for their clients.  Call them today!

Photo: HGTV.com