Buying real estate, especially in what may be a foreign country, can seem pretty overwhelming. Here are some guideless to help you through the process.
1. Research before you look. Decide what features you most want to have in a home, what neighborhoods you prefer, and how much you’d be willing to spend each month for housing.
2. Be realistic. It’s OK to be picky, but don’t be unrealistic with your expectations. There’s no such thing as a perfect home. Use your list of priorities as a guide to evaluate each property.
3. Get your finances in order. Review your credit report and be sure you have enough money to cover your down payment and closing costs. Then, talk to a lender and get prequalified for a mortgage. This will save you the heartache later of falling in love with a house you can’t afford.
4. Don’t ask too many people for opinions. It will drive you crazy. Select one or two people to turn to if you feel you need a second opinion, but be ready to make the final decision on your own.
5. Decide your moving timeline. Will this be a 2nd home? A vacation home with others? A retirement property to rent for a few years before you move? All of these factors will help you determine your timeframe and may affect the type of loan you choose.
6. Think long term. Are you looking for a starter house with plans to move up in a few years, or do you hope to stay in this home for a longer period? Will it be a rental or income property? This decision may dictate what type of home you’ll buy as well as the type of mortgage terms that will best suit you.
7. Insist on a home inspection. If possible, get a warranty from the seller to cover defects for one year.
8. Get help from a Coldwell Banker agent. Hire a real estate professional who specializes in buyer representation.
Stop by our Coldwell Banker office or email us to talk about your buying opportunities and what you need to get started.
