Even if you know exactly what you are looking for, the house hunting and home buying process can be overwhelming.  It can be overwhelming due to many factors, including that there are many different homes on the market including short sales and bank owned, and other homes that are priced too high or sometimes too low (some short sales).  A knowledgeable and experienced real estate agent can guide you in the differences in the buying procedures of these various homes.  In addition, after you find a home, the loan and mortgage procedures are constantly changing, due to new laws being enacted to protect the consumer.    Once you know how much money you can borrow and have an estimate of your closing costs, you will know the price range in which you can afford to buy.   Here are 10 tips to use in the home buying process:

1.  Stick within your budget – don’t look at homes that you cannot afford.

2.  Be flexible. Do not be disappointed if the homes in your price range differ from your dreams.

3.  Concentrated on a few neighborhoods.  Decide what is the most important to you about the neighborhood you want. This can help to narrow down your search.

4.  Carefully consider commuting times and costs.

5.  Ask about utility costs and maintenance costs.

6.  Bring a family member or trusted friend to get an objective opinion on the home that you want to buy.

7.  Do not look at more than about 6 homes a day, or you will start getting them confused.

8.  Compare what you would like to have in a home with what you really need in a home. (wants vs needs)

9.  Find a real estate agent you can trust, and work with him/her exclusively.  It is unfair to waste all of the agents time and gas money, except for the one that you will eventually use to buy your home.  Instead, choose one trusted real estate agent only, and let him/her know that they are the only agent that you will be using to buy a home, and as a result that agent will work extra hard on your behalf.

10. Print out and take along the home buyers worksheet House Hunting Worksheet.

As for me and my method of business, I have buyer’s packets available for buyers that work exclusively with me.  I am honest and hardworking, and I have an extensive knowledge of many areas.  You can count on me, so give me a call today.