Is home hunting in the cards for you this year? If it is, your goal is to find the ideal property, in a neighbourhood that is just right for you. Obviously, within a price range that you can afford. So what do you need — at minimum — to get started?
If you’re looking for ways to get your home hunting ducks in a row, here are some suggestions:
A home hunting property wish list.
What does your ideal home look like? How many bedrooms does it need to have? Do you require a spacious recreational room? A large deck? A pool? A nice view? Get your wish list down on paper before you start home hunting.
A neighbourhood wish list.
Where you live is just as important as what you live in. What qualities are you looking for in a neighbourhood? A nearby park? Walking distance to a good school? Hiking trails? A shorter drive to work? Write it down.
A pre-approved mortgage.
Getting the financing handled up front takes the guesswork out of what you can afford. Home sellers will also take any offers you make more seriously. This is especially important if you find yourself in a multiple offer situation.
Realistic expectations.
99.9% of homes sell at or near the current market rates. So don’t expect to find a bargain that no one else has noticed. Remember the adage; you pay for what you get. The bargain property probably comes with additional problems or work that needs to be done.
A great REALTOR to work with.
Choosing the right real estate professional is crucial to making your home hunting experience less stressful and more productive. It also dramatically increases your chances of finding a home that fits your needs and budget.
Looking for more advice on finding your next dream home? Call today!