5 MV Realty Tips And Tricks For First-Time Home Buyers

 

family looking at a house

 

Buying a home may be most people's dream. It's an exciting process as well. However, buying a property for the first time isn't a walk in the park. There are many factors you have to consider and things you need to learn to avoid issues from possible mistakes. Here are some tips and tricks from MV Realty if you want a smooth home buying experience for the first time:

 

1. Always Have A Pre-Approved For Your Home Loan

Knowing your finances isn't enough. Even if you think you have sufficient money to fund your home buying experience, you should still consider getting pre-approved for a loan. This means that a lender will state how much they can lend you based on your financial capability to pay the loan.

Getting a pre-approved mortgage is essential because it can determine whether you can buy a home via a loan. If you don't get one, you may be wasting your time and energy looking for properties you can't afford. Instead, it can help you filter properties within your financial capability.

 

2. Work With Professionals

If you want a better way to avoid home buying mistakes, consider working with professionals. They know the legal jargon and paperwork required. They also have the network to help make your home buying process a lot easier. They can also help you gauge your finances and understand the real estate market. As a result, you can do every financial and legal standpoint right without doing the process independently.

For instance, the Homeowners Benefit Program and other related programs by some realty companies can help you throughout the stages of homeownership. Especially when making a competitive offer, they can use their connections and knowledge for your best interest. You only need to tell them your specific needs, and they'll find suitable properties for you.

Or you can also hire a real estate lawyer to understand the terms of real estate loans and contracts quickly. This includes the taxes and charges you're likely to pay during the homebuying process. Knowing these can help you prepare financially and mentally.

 

3. Stick To Your 'Home Features' List

When you start touring homes, you must have a list of features you want. Use this list to ensure that what you're visiting will be a potential home. Doing this will also narrow down the properties you will view.

For instance, you need to consider the location. You may want one that's near schools for your kids or a home near your workplace. You also have to check if you wish for a fully-renovated home or one that's a turnkey. And most importantly, such features should be in a home that's within your budget.

 

4. Don't Skip A Home Inspection

A home inspection is vital because this will assess the mechanical system and structure of the property. Here, experts will check for potential or existing problems of the property. Depending on the result, you can negotiate a lower price or find another property. However, you should also understand how a home inspection is. Here are some pointers:


  • Be with the inspector during the inspection. Doing this will allow you to ask queries on the spot and understand the home better. That way, you won't only rely on the inspector's report.
  • Ensure that every crawl space and part of the roof and structure are well-inspected.
  • You may have to book particular types of inspection if you want to check things like pests, mold, or radon. That's because standard inspections don't include such things. Moreover, you need to understand the inclusions of the inspection before having a go to avoid confusion and miscommunications.

 

5. Consider The Closing Costs

Sealing the deal isn't the end of your home buying journey. You still have to pay some closing fees aside from your down payment. You can't have control of your property without paying for these closing costs:


  • Title insurance expenses
  • Escrow fees
  • Appraisal fees
  • Pest inspection fees
  • Attorney fees
  • 2% to 5% of the total loan amount

These and other fees will be reflected on a Closing Disclosure document. Working with a real estate lawyer and other professionals can help you lessen these closing costs. Ask them how you can qualify for government-backed loans or grants that help pay for closing costs. These professionals may even know how to negotiate with the seller at these costs.

Person handing over keys to a couple

 

Conclusion

Buying your home is an ecstasy if you know what you're doing. You can avoid issues that may arise in the future if you consider following the tips above. Start by having a specific budget for your prospective property, hire a professional to help you, and you're good to go.