If you have thought about buying a home but do not know what to do, then we have good news for you: There are only three simple steps between where you are now and owning your own home. Keep reading to find out how simple the process can be and then contact Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices for help finding your perfect home.
1. Finding Out What Reasonable Wishes Are
The first step is to understand what is likely to work for you and what won’t. We recommend looking at online listings in the neighborhood(s) you are considering. At first, look at everything. After you have spent a week or see browsing listings, you will have a better idea of what features you can afford at your price point and what may be out of your reach.
You will also quickly realize that you have some priorities you may not have realized. For example, after looking at a dozen open concept plans you may realize that you prefer a more traditional layout. This is all helpful information for your real estate broker.
2. Do the Math and Your Homework
If you are like most homebuyers, you will need a mortgage to buy your home. It is true that applying for and getting approved for mortgages has gotten easier as the financial and lending crisis is further in the past, but it can still be a complicated process. Know what you can afford, learn about the various loan types, pull your credit, and be sure you fully understand your financial situation.
If you crunch the numbers and find that your credit score needs work, you don’t have enough money saved, or you are short on income to afford the home you need, then you can take time to address these issues. In almost all cases, you are going to need to be pre-approved to have a seller consider any offer you make on their home.
3. Connect with a Local Real Estate Professional
Your final step is to talk to a real estate professional who can help you find the home you are looking for. While you can certainly browse listings and look at open houses online, your real estate professional is familiar with the properties around you. Once you tell them what your priorities are and what you must have, they can make the process much simpler by ruling out homes they know do not fit your needs.
If you are ready to talk to someone who can help simplify the process, contact Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices now at (310) 373-0021. From starter homes to luxury homes, we have access to all the listings in the area and are looking forward to helping you find the right home.