Buyers
Looking to buy a new home?
The buying process can feel overwhelming and daunting. Most buyers usually start this process with an online search using a third-party website such as Zillow or Trulia. There is absolutely nothing wrong with this approach. However, as buyers begin to find properties they are interested in, many simply resort to calling the first agent they see, or even worse, reaching out to the listing agent for the property in question. At this point, things are moving quickly. Buyers are probably not pre-approved yet AND they have enlisted the help of an agent who is representing the best interest of the sellers… These situations can leave buyers wondering how things went so terribly wrong, with a sour taste in their mouths for all future home buying. So, the question you should ask yourself is… IS there a better way? Answer: You BET!
5 easy steps to getting off on the RIGHT foot when looking for your next home:
- Do some research and find a GOOD REALTOR – We know it’s exciting to immediately start looking at homes online, but we recommend taking the time to secure a good realtor first. Ask family or friends for recommendations. Read online reviews, looking specifically for longevity, backgrounds in other trades, different connections or resources. All of this is extremely important.
- Work on getting pre-approved – Once you have selected an agent to work with, they will likely have some great recommendations for a lender. It doesn’t mean you have to use them, but the agent has usually established trust with these individuals who will ensure a much smoother purchase.
- Run the numbers – Once approved, your lender can provide you with a GFE (Good Faith Estimate). This will help you immensely with budgeting, funding requirements, purchasing power, etc., and will help you determine the home price range to focus on.
- Create a search – Again, there is nothing wrong with third-party websites. However, these sites can be highly inaccurate and not up-to-date with the most current information. Why waste your time on these sites when all of the most accurate information is present within our database/search engine – The Matrix/MLS? Not only will your search be accurate, but we have tools to help communicate, show favorited listings, and set up private showings for you in a matter of minutes.
- Schedule private showings – If you have completed the first four steps above, you should now have buyer representation from a realtor of your choosing who has your best interests at heart. This should equate to knowledge about each house, neighborhood or city, best practices with negotiations, inspections, and appraisals, and possibly even having solid recommendations for future projects /renovations. This will put you on the path to a smooth and successful buying experience.
Do you have a specific question that you couldn’t find an answer to on our site?
If so, we encourage you to pick up the phone or send us an email so that we can get you the answers you are searching for!
Are you ready to buy?
How do you know if you are ready to make a move? Take our Readiness Questionnaire and we’ll contact you to start a conversation!
Learn how we help buyers!
Over the past 15+ years, we have helped hundreds of homeowners purchase new homes for their families. Check out a recent case study Adam wrote about how the Agent Benedict Group helps homebuyers through the buying process.