Top Tips for Home Buyers

The temptation for buying a home is both powerful and emotional. Whatever the reason for buying a home, here are the top tips to follow when buying a home!

1. Don't skip the pre-approval

It can be tempting to jump right in when hunting for your next home, or maybe your very first house. However knowing the prequalification's and what you can afford to buy is very important.

Knowing the difference between prequalification VS preapproval is the first step.

Prequalification: is an informal estimate of the amount of home loan you may be able to obtain based on your income, soft credit score, and other information.

Preapproval: is an official document from a mortgage lender telling you exactly what type of loan amount you can get based on your financial status, hard credit score, bank statements, and much more.

2. Stabilize Your Credit

Once your credit has been checked by a lender you want to make sure it stays stable during the loan process. Many landers check your credit multiple times during the loan process. This is not the time to open, close, or transfer accounts or balances. Additionally, you want to make sure you pay all your accounts on time. Any change to your credit has the potential to impact your final approval from a lender.

3. Understand Loan Options

There are many loan options available to you. The type of loan you choose will determine your down payment amount, the type of home you can buy, rates, and much more. Here are some of the most common loan types:

Conventional loans: Conventional loans are the most common type of home loans. You can purchase a home with as little as 3-10% down.

FHA loans: An FHA loan can allow you to buy a home with less strict financial and credit score requirements. You can get an FHA loan with a 3.5% down payment and a credit score as low as 580.

USDA loans: USDA loans are for people who want to buy a home in a qualified rural or suburban area. You can get a USDA loan with 0% down, subject to household income restrictions.

VA loans: VA loans are exclusively for veterans and members of the armed forces and National Guard, and qualified spouses. You can buy a home with 0% down if you qualify for a VA loan.

These are just the most common loan types available to you, make sure to do your own research and determine what loan is best for you and which ones you qualify for. ---> More Resources

4. Make a List of Needs & Must Haves

The reason for buying a home should be your guiding light. For instance if you are moving because you want your children in a better school district, want to be closer to your parents, or even need to relocate for a new career; your location and a bit of research will come in handy.

Needs: are things you need in order to maintain your lifestyle or even begin a new one. Location, Size, Number of Bedrooms, etc.

Must Haves: are things you must have in order to feel secure with your choice. Safety, Alarm Systems, Larger Garage, Certain Neighborhoods, etc.

5. Stay within your Budget

Many home buyers get emotionally invested in a house. This can backfire if they can’t get the loan for the house or they don’t have the funds to address major property issues that the inspection revealed, or that can arise when owning the home. Don’t go over your budget for a house, even if the house seems like the perfect choice. Be sure to budget in enough money for repairs and renovations. The right home is out there for you, so keep searching until you find a home that fits your budget and satisfies your list of must-haves.

6. Hire a Professional Inspector

Make sure you protect yourself and hire an inspector that you trust. Don't take word of mouth that the home your about to purchase is in the best of condition. Also know the difference between professionals you can hire.

Home Inspector: home Inspectors in Nevada are regulated by the Nevada Real Estate Division of the Department of Business and Industry. Initial certification requirements include: Completed application & Fingerprint cards. They are not Licensed Professionals, but hold the certification to inspect the home and hold a basic knowledge of building codes. They are the cheaper option.

Licensed Contractor: licensed contractors are governed and regulated by the Nevada State Contractors Board. They must pass the contractors trade and management exam, apply for their license and obtain insurance/bond per state requirements. They are fully licensed and hold vast knowledge in home building, codes, and much more. They are the more expensive option, but provide a more thorough inspection.

7. Work with a Real Estate Agent

Work with a real Estate Agent you can trust or one that is recommended by those you trust. Unless you have knowledge in real estate pricing, negotiation, closing's, and the wording used during a purchase make sure to protect yourself by hiring a agent. Also make sure that the Agent works for you and is committed to your relationship with them.

Real Estate agents will show you properties that you desire, attend showings with you, help you decide on proper offers, and protect you from the unknown. Learn more about the realtors we recommend. Real Estate Agents we Recommend

8. Be picky and Confident

It's your money, time, and choice; so be picky. Don't get pressured into buying a home your not really sure about. This may be your forever home, first home, or next home. Either way be confident in your decision, and take your time. It's ok to be picky.

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