Buying a home for the first time can seem like a daunting task. Check out this short video above from TIME that includes 3 easy tips for first time home buyers. I’ve broken them down below

Tips:

1. Get Pre-Approval for a loan. This is a hot seller’s market here in the tri-state area. Chances are you will be competing with other home buyers on a property. Not having your ducks in a row as far as how you are going to pay for your new home might make your offer less enticing.

In addition, talking to a lender ahead of time lets you know what you can afford. This will allow you to focus on houses in your price range.

2. Choose to work with a licensed Realtor. You may think you know everything there is to know about real estate after watching all the episodes of House Hunters on HGTV but let’s be honest…. this is their job.

Furthermore, a good realtor has a feel for the market and the neighborhood. They know what it will take to get you in to the house of your dreams and be able to point out things that you might not recognize about a home.

3. Buy within your means. It’s always a good idea not to over extend yourself. Ask yourself a couple questions. If my job status changes overnight would I reasonably be able to make the monthly payments going forward? If the furnace bites the dust or I have a leaking roof, do I have the emergency funds to get that repaired? Or is all my money going to that mortgage payment?

Following these 3 helpful tips will make that first home purchase that much easier. Like always, we’re here to answer your questions at Fidelity Land Title. Let me know if you would like me to get you in contact with one of the many great professionals in our area that can help make your dream of home ownership a reality.

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– David Kennedy