3 Things to Consider Before Beginning Your Home Search

Finding the right home for you and your family can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be!  Here are three main things to focus on that will make the process much smoother.

Budget

When buying a home, you need to determine your budget.  A mortgage lender can help you figure out how much you qualify for and also the amount of money per month that you are comfortable with. Remember, besides the mortgage payment itself, there are more expenses to consider such as property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintenance costs.

Location

Many first-time home buyers feel that the “house” is more important than the location. The actual  house can always be renovated and upgraded. The location cannot be changed. Look for locations that best suit your needs by considering your work commute, school rankings, restaurants, shopping, and distance to loved ones. Once you find the areas you like, go visit them by spending a day there and see if the town is a fit.

Size and Style of the Home

Now that you’ve chosen a location, let’s figure out the details and features of your future home. How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need?  Is having a basement or a garage important? Would a townhome or condo be a good fit? How big of a property do you want? Are public utilities a preference? 

Looking for your dream home can take considerable time and effort. That’s why it is important to have a good understanding of what you can afford, where you would like to live, and what type of home suits you best. 

By choosing a good realtor, you can benefit from their expertise and resources, and increase your chances of finding the right home at the right price.