House Shopping Tips
Here are some quick shopping tips to help make the process easier
This is the fun part where you and your real estate agent will look at homes. It is easy to get overwhelmed during this part of the process, so there are a few things you can do to make the process easier.
Deciding What Kind of House to Buy
The first step when shopping for homes is to determine what kind of house you are looking to buy. The three main types of homes are: condominiums, townhouses, and detached homes. Each category offers a different experience, and which one you choose comes down to personal preference. Condos have an apartment-like feel and are a great option for those that do not want to maintain a yard or large house. Attached homes, also known as townhouses, offer a little more privacy and space while still being relatively easy to maintain. Detached homes offer the most privacy and space but are usually the most expensive option and require the most maintenance.
You will also need to determine what size of home you want to buy. Determine how many bedrooms and bathrooms you will need to live comfortably. Remember to plan for the future. Are you planning on having kids? Will you need a home office? All of these affect the size of the home you will buy.
Attend open houses and take home tours
If you’re not sure where to begin, Redfin recommends starting to attend in-person or virtual open houses and home tours. These tours can help you identify the type of home you like, the layout, and the features you want or don’t want in your home. When you’re touring multiple homes, it’s easy to confuse the different features or concerns you have about one house with another you’ve seen, so take notes as you’re touring. Don’t forget to pick your agent’s brain and ask for their input. (Source: Redfin)
Viewing Homes
Once you start looking at many houses, it can be easy for them to blend together. Start by creating a list of things you must have, what you can compromise on, and what you would like but is not necessary in the house you buy. When you visit each house, make note of what it has. If it doesn’t have something you already said you must have, walk away.
While at each house you visit, create a list of the things you like and the things you dislike. Write down a “landmark” or a unique feature during each house visit that helps you remember it later. This makes it easier to narrow down your choices and remember your favorites and least favorites.
If you have any questions or are curious to see what you could qualify to borrow, contact E5 Home Loans. Even if you already have a quote or prequalification, reach out to us for a Second Opinion. E5 Home Loans shops for the best products across many lenders and we don’t charge a bunch of crazy fees.