Starting the Home Buying Process

It may be of no surprise to you that ” 60 percent of the buyer journey is complete before prospects reach out to vendors.” ~ The Corporate Executive Board via B2B Marketing Insider

We are here to tell you it does not have to be that way. We are here to help. Home buyers, just like everyone else, come in all shapes and sizes. Some live in the area and are looking to move right up the street while others are moving across the country or state and could not tell you the name of any towns. Some people have bought 3 houses and know the drill, while others have never stepped foot in an open house. The good news is– we are here to help you all!

home-buying
Don’t just dream it– DO IT!

The home buying process may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We recommend the first step be to meet with an agent. This is the perfect opportunity for you to get to know him/her. It’s also the perfect opportunity to go over your wants and needs, your priorities and to tell the agent a little bit about who you are and what your future plans entail. Through conversation you will learn about the agent’s experiences and expertise. In the end you will all be on the same stage and excited to start the journey.

Remember, the home buying process is a journey. After you meet with an agent you should head right over to the mortgage company– if you haven’t already done so. Your agent will be able to recommend a few reliable contacts, if you need. Whenever you head out shopping, whether it be for a house, car or even a pair of shoes– it is important to know and understand your financial situation. How much money do you have? How much money do you need? How much money will you end up with? What is your comfort zone? Once you understand your financial situation- you are ready to start seeing houses.

Seeing houses can be fun! Try to see a few different styles of homes. It will help you discover what priorities you are and are not willing to negotiate on. Keep your eyes and your mind wide open during this stage of the process. Some “problems” may be very easy to fix while others– well, others, not so much. For example: you can change out appliances or counter tops and you can take down wall paper and paint a room. It’s much more difficult to fix a foundation or change the size of the yard. One last tip: It can sometimes be difficult to see past another person’s style– but trust us, it will be worth it in the end.

One question many first time buyers ask their agent is: How will I know when I’ve found “the one”? Our answer is– you just know. You walk in and feel that sense of home. The feeling of comfort and warmth. Without even realizing it, you are picturing your furniture in the living room and coffee on the back deck. If it’s a fixer-upper then you might picture how it could look with the walls gone and new floors. Granted, not everyone has these overwhelming feelings, but many people do.

USA today recently published an article titled “5 foolish mistakes first-time home buyers make”. It’s worth a look to make sure your home buying process is as stress free and relaxing as possible.

While you’re at it, give us a shout at (518) 861-7030. We’re here to help!

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