Three Simple Steps to Help Kick Start Your Home Search
Step 1: Commit to Home Ownership
Home ownership is often called the best “accidental investment” most people ever make. At The Home Boutique we believe when it’s done right, home ownership becomes an “intentional investment” that lays the foundation for a lifetime of financial security and personal choice. There are many reasons to buy a home. Be sure you base your decision to buy on fact, not rumor:
- If you’re currently renting, chances are you can afford to buy.
- There is never a wrong time to buy the right home. Find a good buy, and make sure you have the financial ability to hold onto it for the long run.
- A less-than-perfect credit score, or lack of a sizable down payment won’t necessarily stop you from buying a home. Many lenders offer different loan products developed to help buyers in a variety of financial situations.
- Buying a home doesn’t have to be complicated and you don’t have to go it alone – see step #3 below!
Step 2: Create a Wish List
Before you begin your home search, determine the key features and amenities that are important to you in a new home:
- Age: Do you prefer older homes with character, or newer construction?
- Style: Do you have a preference for ranches, bungalows, or another style of construction?
- Bedrooms: How many do you need now? How many will you need in the future?
- Bathrooms: How many? Do they need to be updated, or do you want to tackle the remodel yourself?
- Living and Dining Areas: Are you looking for a traditional layout, or a more open, contemporary space?
- Stories: How many? Do you need a basement?
- Square feet: How much space do you need?
- Kitchen: How big? Recently updated? Open to other living areas?
- Storage: Big closets, a shed, or do you need extra attic or basement space?
- Parking: Do you prefer a garage or carport? Room for how many cars?
- Neighborhood: Do you want quiet, tree-lined streets, or the hustle and bustle of the big city?
- Amenities: Do you need a flat backyard? Is an in-law suite a must-have? Do you need a large lot with room for a pool? Are you looking for an active swim & tennis community?
Once you’ve finalized your wish list, let us do the legwork for you! Simply fill-out our brief search form, and you’ll receive regular email updates from The Home Boutique whenever properties become available that match your criteria.
Step 3: Hire a Real Estate Professional
The typical real estate transaction involves at least two dozen separate individuals whose actions need to be carefully monitored to ensure your purchase is completed successfully. It is the responsibility of your real estate agent to expertly coordinate all the professionals involved in your home purchase and to act as the advocate for you and your interests throughout. While qualifications are important, finding a solid, professional agent means getting beyond the resume, and delving into what makes an agent successful. Use the following questions as a starting point when interviewing your next real estate agent:
- Why did you become a real estate agent?
- Why should I work with you?
- What do you do better than other real estate agents?
- What process will you use to help me find the right home for my particular wants and needs?
- What are the most common things that go wrong in a transaction and how would you handle them?
- What are some mistakes that you think people make when buying their first home?
- What other service providers do you suggest we work with, and what are their credentials?
- Can you provide me with references or testimonials from past clients?
Ready to start get started on your home search? We’d love to help! Simply complete the Contact Us form, and one of our team members will get in touch with you to set up your consultation.
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