How to Find Your Perfect Home
It can often seem elusive or impossible but finding the “perfect” home may not be as hard as it seems. Being prepared – just like doing your homework – will be your best bet. Below are a few easy steps to follow and after you set your parameters – you will be well on your way.
What can You Afford?
Let’s first begin by prequalifying for your home loan. As a Realtor®, I believe this should be your first step and there are a number of reasons why. Getting pre-qualified for a home mortgage will not only tell you how much you can afford but how much you will need as a down payment and prepaids. Prepaids are the taxes, interest and insurance amount you will need to pay at closing. A mortgage originator will be able to give you an estimate of these expenses to get you started.
When you submit a prequalification letter with an offer, sellers will realize that you are serious and capable of buying a home. As a result, they will be more apt to negotiate with you about the market price of the house.
If you don’t know a mortgage originator, ask a Realtor® for a recommendation. We work closely with mortgage originators and certainly know the best in the business.
Location, location, location.
When searching for a home, knowing the area you desire to be in can make the task easier and faster. So before getting started with the house hunting, do a little neighborhood hunting first. There are a number of resources online, from municipal Web sites to forums, that you can use to find out about prospective areas that may be right for you. Contacting a real estate agent is also another great resource in finding an area that can meet your needs.
You can find more information for: Tips for Choosing the “Right” Neighborhood on my website.
There is more to finding a home than just where it sits geographically. There are a lot of things to consider during the home search after defining the neighborhood and location. For most, a home is the most significant purchase they will ever make.
Define Your Home
Let’s define the elements that you want in your home. It could be a garage, basement, extra bedroom or bath, a large kitchen, fireplace or open floor plan. Choosing the style of home that you want is an important first step in finding the perfect place to call home. You may also want to consider whether you prefer a single-level or two-story home. Many home buyers also factor in floor plans when searching for a house, including those that offer an open and flowing design or split floor plan.
Nobody knows the real estate business like a REALTOR®, so let us help you in your search for the perfect home.
In conclusion, you should know that the search for your perfect home is a journey and your ideal home will be changing as your needs and income change. The greatest satisfaction will be at the journey’s end and your new home’s beginning.
As always, if you are looking to BUY or SELL a home in the Montgomery, Alabama and surrounding areas – including Prattville, Millbrook, Wetumpka and Pike Road – give me a call. I can help !
Jan Milstead
Assoc. Broker, ABR, CRS, CSP
Aronov Realty Brokerage, Inc.
(334) 399-9637
A nice simple reminder that all homebuyers, especially first timers need to read. I especially like the part where you said to prequalify first. I can’t believe how many people still don’t do this and than get heart broken when they find out they don’t qualify!
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Jan – I love your website. I’m embarrassed to say I’ve just now looked at it. I also love your RE facebook page. I have a new website through Top Producer and have Market Snapshot. I’m feeling very challenged in order to make everything flow and inviting, but I’m determined! Carol