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House Hunting: 5 Tips for Finding Your First Home

Finding a new home can be an exciting process, especially if you are doing it for the first time. While the process can sometimes feel overwhelming, there are many things to consider to make the process more smooth. Here are 5 things to think about as you search for your dream home:

1. Set Your Budget

The most important thing to decide on before you start searching for your home is your budget. The last thing you want to do is waste time looking at homes that aren’t in your price range. You can calculate your price range with online calculators that can estimate what you can afford. You can also estimate your price range by getting pre-approved for a loan. Going into the home buying process knowing what you can afford is a great feeling.

2. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

One of the best ways to position yourself as a serious home buyer is get pre-approved for a loan. You can do this with a mortgage lender. This way, when the time comes, you have everything ready for the seller if you choose to make an offer. Most sellers don’t even consider an offer unless you are pre-approved.

3. Decide on What you Want and Need

After you decide on your budget, you should decide on the other elements of your home you are looking for. This way, you can make the process faster to choose a home that is right for you. Create a list of your needs and then a list of your non-negotiables. This can be the amount of rooms and bathrooms, for example. Keep in mind the elements that are nice to have but you could do without, like a game room or a pool.

4. Hire a Real Estate Agent

It can be hard to look for a home when you’re doing it on your own. That’s why hiring a real estate agent can make your life easier. Try interviewing a few agents to see who you like the most. Another important factor to consider are the connections the agents have, like builders and developers, to give you more vetted options.

5. Decide on Your Ideal Neighborhood

Location. Location. Location. While your home is important, you should also think about the things you desire in the surrounding neighborhood. Things like good schools, low crime, and local amenities can affect the value of your home and your enjoyment of your home.

Your home will probably be one of the largest purchases of your life. Be patient and utilize these tips so that you can find the perfect one for you.

Found the perfect home to move to? Contact Move Happy for a free quote:

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