Where to Start?
Whether you are buying your first home or looking to move, there are some key questions that you need to ask yourself and some steps you need to take. By asking yourself these five simple questions – who, what, where, when, and why – you will be quickly on your way to finding what you are looking for. And remember, it’s never too early to contact me if you’re interested in buying a home; let’s make your dream become a reality!
Who are you and what can you afford?
Are you a first time home buyer or are you looking to upsize or downsize from your existing home? Whatever your goal may be, it’s important to know your budget and what you can afford. It’s highly recommended that all home buyers get a mortgage pre-approval from either a bank or a mortgage broker before starting their home search; this will ensure that we find the right home for you within a budget you can afford. Just think how awful it would be to find your dream home and then find out that you can’t get the necessary financing. Another important factor to consider is a down payment; if you haven’t started saving for this, now is the time to start!
What are you looking for?
It’s important to have a general idea of what kind of home or property you are looking for. You need to consider the size of your family and what you will need. Whether you are looking for a single-family home with lots of property or a small condo, it’s important to be as specific as possible.
Where are you looking to buy?
Finding the right community for you takes many considerations. The location needs to fit your needs depending on where you work and how you get there but it also needs to fit with your lifestyle. Some communities are better suited to families with an abundance of schools, parks, and recreation facilities, while others would be more suitable to young professionals with entertainment, nightlife, and restaurants.
When are you looking to move?
Are you urgently needing to move due to relocation or a change in your situation, or are you just starting out the “looking” process? It’s important to set a clear timeline for yourself. It’s possible to work within any timeline as long as you know what it is.
Why are you moving?
At the end of the day, this question will likely give you most of the answers as to what it is you are looking for. We all have a reason for moving. Some of the most common include wanting to own our own homes and stop paying rent, and when our housing needs change such as expanding the family or a change in employment. Whatever your reason may be, let this question guide you on your search.
