3 Things You Need to Know Before You Buy a Home

by Bill and Aby Brooks, REALTORS® 03/11/2019

Buying your dream home may prove to be a long, arduous process. Thankfully, those who prepare for the homebuying journey can limit the risk of encountering hurdles along the way. And as a result, these homebuyers may be better equipped than others to enjoy a fast, seamless property buying experience.

Now, let's take a look at three things you need to know before you launch a home search.

1. The current housing market may favor buyers or sellers.

It generally is a good idea to evaluate the current housing market closely. That way, you can differentiate a buyer's market from a seller's market and map out your homebuying journey accordingly.

A buyer's market typically features a wide range of quality houses that may remain available for several weeks or months after they are listed. Comparatively, a seller's market usually is defined by a shortage of top-notch homes, and houses may be purchased just days after they become available.

Regardless of whether you are operating in a buyer's or seller's market, it helps to refine your home search. If you enter the housing market with homebuying criteria, you can narrow your search for your ideal residence. Then, once you find your dream house, you can act quickly to submit an offer to purchase it.

2. You may want to get pre-approved for a mortgage.

If you get pre-approved for a mortgage, you can begin your house search with a budget in hand. You next can hone your home search to residences that fall within your price range.

To get pre-approved for a mortgage, you should meet with a variety of banks and credit unions. These financial institutions can teach you everything you need to know about fixed- and adjustable-rate mortgages. They also can help you make an informed mortgage selection in no time at all.

3. Having a real estate agent at your side can make a world of difference.

Homebuyers who try to navigate the property buying journey alone may struggle to achieve their desired results. On the other hand, if you hire a real estate agent, you can receive expert assistance as you search for your dream house.

A real estate agent understands what it takes to streamline the homebuying cycle. Thus, if you want to acquire a first-rate house as quickly as possible, a real estate agent can help you do just that. Or, if you want to find a stellar residence that won't force you to break your budget, a real estate agent will make it simple to discover an affordable house that suits you perfectly.

Furthermore, a real estate agent can respond to your homebuying concerns and queries. And if you are ever uncertain about how to proceed along the homebuying journey, a real estate agent is ready to provide tips and recommendations.

Want to enjoy a successful homebuying experience? Start planning for the homebuying journey today, and you can boost the likelihood of achieving the best-possible results.

About the Author
Author

Bill and Aby Brooks, REALTORS®

Aby’s understanding of excellent customer service stems from her extensive professional background. Prior to earning her real estate license in 2005, along with her college degree that focuses on business and engineering, Aby was the head of purchasing, inventory and quality assurance for an OEM medical and aerospace manufacturing company. Known by her clients and fellow realtors for her tenacity, honesty, integrity, and attention to detail, as a full-time realtor, she is also appreciated for her quick response to her client’s needs. Aby has been an avid horse rider and owner since the age of eight, with her husband Billas a local firefighter/EMT they are very active within the community. Bill served as a US Army Airborne Ranger in 75th Ranger Regiment, he is a combat-wounded veteran who was awarded a Purple Heart. Bill's background as facility Manager for an International metals company and as a firefighter/EMT gives him the experience, attention to detail and the desire to go above and beyond to serve his customers. The Brooks' serve on the board of a local non-profit (501c3) that gives back to the veterans, first responders and their families. The Brooks family resides on their small ranch in Manatee County. Aby& Bill excel in all types of real estate and their passion is helping people. “We genuinely like people, growing up in Sarasota and Manatee counties and now raising our own family here, it is an absolute pleasure to share our growing area with newcomers and reminisce with longtime residents. Our area has so much to offer and it is our business to help folks buy and sell their own piece of paradise.”