Think about the details, from finding the right home for your needs to how moving day will go. Start making lists, get organized, and keep any paperwork related to both your current and the new home in a safe place.
Of course, it’s also important to make sure you have the budget for a move, which can be costly in most areas of the U.S. Not only do you need to start saving for the down payment pretty early on, but you’ll also need to think about closing costs, how you’ll pay for the move itself, and how to fund a shopping trip for new furniture or decor.
Having a good financial plan in the very beginning will help avoid nasty surprises down the road and will reduce stress and anxiety. There’s really no down side to planning your finances carefully before buying a home, and the benefits may surprise you in the long run.
SayEducate invites you to keep reading for some tips on how to make your first home-buying experience a positive one.
Plan for Your Down Payment
The down payment is important for many reasons. Not only does it affect the amount of your mortgage and interest rate, but also the amount can vary depending on whether you have special funding.
There are several lending programs out there for first-time homebuyers that allow for a reduced down payment, and a rural home loan will eliminate the need for a down payment at all.
Do some research to figure out how much you’ll need and how long it will take you to save. Look at local home prices to get an idea of what’s available, and then crunch numbers with a mortgage calculator.
Make a List of Your Needs
Your first home should include all the things you want and need so you and your family will be comfortable and happy. Sit down and make a list of what you’re looking for, including amenities that you could do without if necessary.
Think about school districts, neighborhood, location and proximity to your favorite grocery store or the doctor’s office, and whether you’ll have to commute.
You’ll also want to think about the number of bedrooms and bathrooms and where the laundry facilities are located (some people like to have the washer and dryer upstairs so they don’t have to lug their clothes up and down the steps).
Do you work from home? Then a home office is definitely something you won’t want to be without. Prioritize safety and comfort by looking for a house with a home office away from distractions, in a well-ventilated area, and with additional outlets.
Have It Inspected
Even if the home you want to buy is only a few years old, you’ll want to have it inspected. There could be damage from the previous tenants or issues with the plumbing, electrical wiring, or roof that need to be addressed.
Hiring an inspector will save you quite a bit of worry and money and give you peace of mind in the days leading up to the move-in date.
other related articles of interest:
Housing Help: 5 Things To Consider Before Buying A First Home
Look for Style Updates
Don’t get distracted by the way the home looks when you first walk in; remember, the current tenant has their own sense of style, and it may not line up with yours.
Instead, look at the size of the kitchen and living room, whether there are updates to areas like the bathroom, and what sort of shape the roof, HVAC unit, and structure are in. This will allow you to make a smart decision.
Reducing your stress and anxiety levels will help you enjoy the process of buying your first home, so make an effort to get organized and plan ahead in order to keep things relaxed. Talk to your family members about the plan so that everyone is on the same page.
Image Credit: tips and advice for first-time homebuyers by Pixabay
end of post … please share it!
end of post idea for home improvement
view and analyze home improvement ideas at our LetsRenovate center
Helpful article? Leave us a quick comment below.
And please give this article a rating and/or share it within your social networks.
