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Tips for the First-Time Home Buyer

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  • Buying your first house is exciting. These tips will help you to better enjoy the experience.
  • Speak with a lender to determine your price range. This will streamline your search, save precious time and avoid disappointments that occur when you search in a range you cannot afford.
  • Define the "wants" you hope to have in your new home.
  • Trim that list to arrive at your "needs" for this home. Do not eliminate the "must haves"  — but be aware of what your price range can get in the current market.
  • Search online to determine a community that meets your parameters for your commute to work, school system and lifestyle preferences. 
  • Preview online the inventory in your price range in that community.
  • Select an experienced broker in that community who can streamline your search. This will save time because this agent will be knowledgeable about and will show you the homes that meet your needs.
  • Start a dialogue with your agent and make an appointment to tour the area and visit homes that you both feel are appropriate.
  • Keep an open mind as you visit each home — you can learn something from those that you eliminate, as well as from those you prefer.
  • Keep good notes to help you identify the homes you have visited.
  • Ask to revisit any homes that interest you. That second look will provide a more concentrated and thorough understanding of these properties.
  • Try to moderate your emotions as you move forward. This process is filled with anxiety and frustration. An experienced broker should be able to ease your concerns and guide you to a successful conclusion.
  • Contact me for a discussion of these and other issues as you step out on this exciting journey.

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