Home Buying 101
By Paola Conner, Levin Rinke Realty, 601-278-4061
So, you want to buy a home. This in itself is a milestone, for with it, you’ve taken the first steps in the journey to homeownership. Your personal journey will be uniquely yours, complete with surprising struggles and unexpected successes. But take comfort in the fact that you’re not the first person in the world to purchase a home. Millions of people in this country have gone through the same process that you’re starting now. It’s possible. It’s been done before. And like you, every other homeowner began with the same thought: “I’m ready to buy a home.”
I won’t sugarcoat it: Buying a home can be scary. Your home will likely be the biggest purchase of your life. But with the right tools at your disposal, you can continue down this path to achieve the stability, financial security, and joy that come with owning your first home.
When you start looking for houses, here are some things you should consider:
- The neighborhood: Make sure the home you’re looking for is in a community that suits you. If you’re trying to get away from the hustle and bustle, search for a house in a quiet neighborhood. If you’re passionate about discovering new things, research homes that are in up-and-coming parts of town. Don’t just focus on the house. Make sure the location is right for you.
- The school district: If you have kids or plan to have kids, think about the local schools. You want to make sure you’re providing your children with the best possible education, and your location may have a lot to do with that. And even if you don’t have kids, buying a home in a good school district can make it easier to sell when you’re ready to.
- The commute: Carefully consider the time it would take you to get from your potential house to your job. Your dream house will quickly become a headache if you’re driving an extra two hours a day.
- The age of the property: Who doesn’t love an old house? It’s easy to get carried away by old wooden doors and custom-made windows. But older houses often come with surprise expenses that don’t necessarily exist in newer homes. If you’re looking for “a project,” make sure you have the funds and the right expectations.
- The space: The layout matters, but so does the amount of space available. How much room does your family need? Do you frequently have guests? Considering your lifestyle, can help you figure out how much space you really need.
Above all else, take time to really look at the house you’re interested in. Consider necessary improvements or problem areas, as well as whether the overall value of the neighborhood is projected to go up or down. A good agent will not let you settle for a bad home. I’ll give you helpful hints on the area and advice about the pricing of houses. When you are ready, I’ll show you the rest of the way!
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