Buyers... Don't Do These 10 Things!!

So you have decided it is time to buy a new home. Whether that's new construction or just new to you, there are several things thatyou should avoid doing to ensure that the process goes smoothly and you make a good investment. Here are 10 things not to do when buying a home:

1. Don't rush the process: Take your time to find the right property for you and your family. Rushing the process could lead to regrets later. We saw this happen with some purchases during the COVID pandemic. The frenzy created a huge FOMO spell in the housing industry which has left some buyers wishing they had something different. Yes, the frenzy is over but FOMO is very much still alive. Being in a rush AND not knowing (really knowing) your wants and needs can lead you down the path of buyer's remorse. So take the time to nail down YOUR non-negotiables and like to haves BEFORE heading out on that search. This will help keep you focused on finding the right home for you and your family.
2. Don't buy a house you can't afford: Make sure you can comfortably afford the monthly mortgage payments and other related expenses. Things like taxes and insurance are typically rolled into your loan thus your mortgage payment. Be sure your lender is looking at all programs you are eligible to use for your purchase. There are programs specifically designed for First Time Homebuyers and Military Veterans and Active Duty members.
3. Don't skip the home inspection: A home inspection is critical to identifying any potential problems with the property, so make sure to schedule one before finalizing the sale. These are back since the pandemic selling season. Be sure to choose to have one, even if you buying a home AS-IS. We all know about the inspection of the house, but this is a fabulous time for YOU to inspect those utility bills so that you are more prepared for the costs of owning THAT specific home.
4. Don't neglect the location: You've heard the old adage LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION!! Only you know the perfect location for you! Be sure to look at all the aspects of where the house is in relation to its convenience to shopping, work, amenities, safety, and social things to do. The location of the property is just as important as the property itself.
5. Don't ignore hidden costs: In addition to the purchase price, there are other costs to consider, such as maintenance. Some buyers don't think about these seemingly hidden costs of home ownership... things like the lights, gas and water (if applicable), lawn maintenance, trash pick up, plumbing problems, bugs 🐛, rodents, air conditioning, heat! Whew! That is a long list. Be prepared!
6. Don't make big purchases before closing: This is HUGE. Please for the love of all things sacred avoid making big purchases, like a new car or furniture, before closing on your home loan. This could impact your credit score and loan approval. The last thing you want is for your loan qualification to be in jeopardy and lose the house you have picked out! This happens more than we want to see so protect yourself and wait until after closing to go do those shopping.
7. Don't rely solely on online research: While online research can be helpful, it's important to physically visit the properties and the neighborhoods before making a decision. We know that most buyers begin their home search online. That is great for giving you a starting point and pick out some favorites. Take a drive to see the neighborhood and proximity to the things you find important. Even seeing how the house sits on the property has been a deciding factor for some of our clients.
8. Don't forget to factor in your future plans: Consider your future plans, such as starting a family or changing jobs, when choosing a property. As a teacher we planned with the end in mind. I'm not referring to the forever end but if you know a life event is coming up be sure this home purchase fits in that plan or easily adaptable. Selling prior to 2 years of ownership has tax implications so you want to be sure you can at least that long before selling or perhaps renting the home out!
9. Don't ignore the homeowner association rules: If the property is part of a homeowner association, make sure to read and understand the rules and regulations. Don't just put that paperwork aside and trust that all is fine. Take the time to read it to know if the neighborhood rules are things you can and want to live with.
10. Don't skip the paperwork: Make sure to review and understand all the paperwork involved in the home-buying process, including the purchase agreement, loan documents, and title documents. I know the amount of paperwork can sometimes seem like Mount Everest but we are asking you to take the time to know what you are signing and agreeing to in those documents.

Buying a home can be an exciting time. So much so we get lost in the home search that we forget about the living part. The day to day, week to week, month to month living. Oh and the paying of those bills that come with the house! Take the time to think about all these things. Review them with your REALTOR to be sure the houses you're touring fit the parameters of your life today and for years to come.

Happy Home Searching,