A few years ago, a home buyer could almost buy the first home they looked at and be assured that it would be worth more when it came time to sell. In today's real estate market, you have to be a more savvy buyer, you need to be more selective in what you buy, and where. In short, you need to know more now before you jump into a purchase. Here are five things you need to know, and do, before you purchase your first, or next, home.
- Know your Options for Financing
Bad financing has burned many a buyer in the last couple of years. Your Realtor can refer you to a number of reputable home loan professionals in the area, home loan companies that have been around for a long time and will be here for years to come. If you have a loan representative help you determine how much you can afford, it will save you a lot of frustration and wasted time. There are dozens of loan programs available. Discuss your needs and objectives with your loan professional. Review the loans and rates available in your area, and based on your income and existing debt, determine how much you can afford. You need to make an informed decision about which loan is right for you today, and in the long term. Things to consider include: First Time Buyers programs, Government backed loan programs, Down Payment options, Locking in the Interest Rate, length of escrow, and direct payment options.
- Understand What A Buyers Agent Does
The buyers agent works for you, and represents your best interests. Your agent should provide you with a Buyers Representation Agreement, which clearly outlines what the agent will do and how you will be represented. In most cases the representation of the buyers agent will not require payment from you, as the buyers agent is paid out of the commission charged to the seller of the house that you buy. Ask your Realtor for details on what a buyers agent does for their clients.
- Know What Affects the Value of Homes
Real Estate is a major investment. Things change, neighborhoods change. People move more frequently today than they have in the past. You have surely heard it before, but the most important thing affecting the value of a home is LOCATION! Some other things to consider include: Is the neighborhood being kept up or is it slipping? How is the home in relation to others in the area? Is the home the smallest home in a neighborhood of big homes, or the most expensive home in a neighborhood of cheaper homes? How might things change in the future? Those open lots behind your home, are they zoned to become a park, a school, a convenience store, or more homes? How has the area appreciated? What is the future potential? Are there any environmental issues with the ground water? Any history of flooding? These are the kind of questions you need answered before signing on the dotted line. Which leads us to...
- Have a Professional Home Inspection
Sometimes called a "Whole House Inspection", it can be written into your offer on the home that the offer price is based on the successful results of the home inspection. If the inspector finds a defect, the owner will have to fix it, or you can negotiate a modification to the price. If you can't work it out with the seller, you do not have to proceed with the transaction. By having a professional "Whole House Inspection" you might save yourself thousands of dollars and many hours of frustration from future problems with the house. There are also available home warranties that a buyer can purchase. These cover the appliances in the home and other items for the first year after you buy the home. This allows you to relax knowing that if anything goes wrong with the house after you move in, it will be taken care of. Ask your realtor for details.
- Know How the Purchase Will Affect Your Taxes and your Household Budget
There are many tax benefits to owning a home including deduction of mortgage interest and loan points in certain instances. Check with your tax advisor or accountant to make sure you understand them. You need to know the effects on your taxes and budget before you buy the home to prevent surprises later on. The tax laws change frequently, so get the latest updates. And how will your new monthly mortgage payment impact your overall household budget. You may have to adjust your spending habits in order to adapt.
Don't go into the home purchase without being armed with the facts. It could cost you thousands of dollars!
Vicki Walker is a Realtor in Davis, California. She represents buyers of Homes in Davis, CA She has been a Yolo County Realtor for over 12 years and enjoys writing articles about the business of Real Estate.
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