4 Great Tips for New Home Buyers
A new year may bring big changes: new goals, new attitudes and maybe even a new home. If you are hoping to buy a house in 2019 but are unsure where to start, take a look at some helpful tips below. Buying a home is a big deal and you want to make sure you are as prepared as possible. Good luck and have a wonderful New Year!
Raise your Credit Score
A good credit score is one of the best ways to make buying a home more affordable. If you think you might need to increase your credit score, there are a few actions you can take now. Pay down your balances and keep them low. You might even consider consolidating your balance onto one card. Make sure you maintain good credit habits over time. A history of making payments by the deadline and paying off outstanding balances will help you get better rates on loans. Even a slight decrease in the interest rate of your home loan will save you quite a bit of money in the long run.
Find a Location
Deciding where you want to live can be difficult; there are so many factors that go into finding a new home. One way to help you make the best choice is to do some research. Look into a location’s school district and neighborhood. Is the location close to your work, friends, and family? How safe is the area? Once you can answer these questions, you will be able to narrow your search to a location that has the right homes for you.
Choose a Real Estate Agent
Once you feel confident with your financial situation and know where you want to live, it is time to find a real estate agent who can help you find the right house or sell your current home. It is always a good idea to vet any potential agent. Look at his or her credentials, check to see what he/she sold recently, and what he/she is selling currently. If the agent’s sold or current properties are of interest, schedule a face-to-face meeting to discover how he/she can specifically meet your needs. Never be afraid to contact multiple agents. It is also a good idea to ask for references or referrals, so you can see what clients have to say about the agents.
Make Your Current Home More Marketable
Prior to looking for a new house you may need to sell your current home. Before you put your house on the market, make it more sellable by making repairs, decluttering and cleaning. Making those little fixes will really pay off. Check out my past blog for some advice on home improvements for older homes. These small improvements make a big difference in how buyers view your house. De-cluttering your home and keeping it clean before a showing will make your home more appealing to interested buyers.
Bonus Tip: Senior Care Facilities
One thing that we also want to mention is that buying a new home can also come with other considerations, like how close you will be to senior care facilities if your parents or other loved ones are in need of that type of care. Here is a fantastic list of The 10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Boise, ID. Choosing a new home shouldn’t be a hassle! Make life easier with these considerations.
Buying a home may seem daunting but these simple tips will make the process a bit easier. Are you ready for a move? Contact me today to get started!