5 Home Buying Tips from Realtors

Before you make the big leap and start to look for your new home, there are some secrets your realtor would like to let you in on to make your home buying experience go as smoothly as possible. Here are five tips to ensure you are happy in your new home.

1. Choose a realtor you can trust and who represents your best interests.

Look at the agent’s website and ask a lot of questions. When speaking with an agent, start by asking: “How many home deals have you closed on the buyer’s side this year?” Also ask about his or hers price-to-list. The price-to-list is what a house has actually sold for versus the list price. [clickToTweet tweet=”‘Your agent should be trying to get you the lowest price on your dream home.’Top 5 Tips from Realtors via A1 Mortgage” quote=”Be wearing of agents who are only trying to make themselves a commission, an agent should be trying to get you the lowest price on your dream home. “]

2. Vet your neighborhood before you commit.

Don’t feel pressured to purchase what you think is your dream home if you won’t like living in that neighborhood for years to come. Find out what is most important to you and research if that exists in this area. Are schools close? Streets well lit at night? Do people keep their yards maintained? You want to feel just as comfortable in your neighborhood as you do your new home. If you don’t think the home you’re looking at is in an area you will love, it’s time to move on.

3. Do the Google Test.

This is also another way to vet your realtor. Google the home(s) you’re potentially interested in purchasing and then ask your agent, “What can you tell me about this house, neighborhood, town, etc. that I can’t find on the Internet?” An agent worth your time should be able to tell you insider information that’s unavailable elsewhere. This will also give you the facts before you tour the home. Often times, buyers will be excited when then go through a house and fail to see things that might ultimately be deal breakers for them.  Bottom line, don’t go through the purchasing process blindly.

Considering For Sale By Owner? Know the facts first. 

4. Everything is negotiable.

From issues brought up by home inspections to furniture in the home, everything has a price. Whether you are willing to pay the asking price and the seller is willing to compromise are two different things.  Lenders will only lend up to the appraisal amount of the home so keep that in mind when negotiating.

5. Consider what your payments will actually be.

Be sure to factor in closing costs, mortgage insurance (if applicable), taxes, insurance and upkeep. Using all of your savings for a down payment is something you want to avoid. You don’t want to be instantly cash poor in your new home and be unprepared if any unexpected events occur.

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With these insider tips you should be well on your way to purchasing your new home and will be happy with your investment for many years to come!