Buying a home is a major investment. Learn what to do, and what to avoid.

The Most Important Do's and Don’ts of Buying a Home For most of us, buying a home represents a major investment. Decisions we make while searching and negotiating will have an impact that will last for years - even decades! Avoid common home buying pitfalls… Get Pre-Approved Get a pre-approval letter from a good lender before you begin your search. Shop around, and know your options. Find the perfect home… only to learn that no lender will make it happen. Don’t have your heart broken by a denial. Protect Your Credit Score Once you have your pre-approval letter, keep your credit report clean. Pay your bills on time and be patient. Open any new credit cards or lines-of-credit.  Saving $25 by opening a card with a retailer could raise your interest rate! Be Data Driven Fall in love with your new home - after you conclude a thorough price comparison to nearby, similar properties. Let your heart get your wallet into trouble. Agreeing to pay more than a home is objectively worth will create problems. Consider Home Improvements Be willing to make reasonable changes that will make a good home great.  Evaluate the costs and time involved. Plan on tackling major projects without getting an estimate. If you haven’t done the work before, call a contractor first. Enlist Professional Help Secure the services of a trusted real estate professional. Look for a dedicated partner who knows the industry well. Try to do it all on your own.  The seller will have someone protecting their interests; have someone protecting yours. Bottom Line Even in a buyer’s market, knowing what to do and what not to do will protect you from disappointment or worse. That doesn’t mean you need to be an expert. Talk to the professionals. Ask questions. Be careful and methodical in your decision-making. Your perfect home is out there waiting for you - most likely here in sunny SW Florida! Want to chat more about what to expect and the options you have? Let’s connect. Verna “V” Regler 239.671.7279 Powered by Blogger Report Abuse Return to Home Page Topics Buyer 10127 Market Update26 Seller 10124 SW Florida Living19 Past Messages June 20253 May 20254 April 20254 March 20253 February 20253 January 20253 December 20242 November 20242 October 20242 September 20243 August 20243 July 20244 June 20243 May 20244 April 20243 March 20244 February 20242 January 20243 December 20234 November 20233 October 20233 September 20234 August 20233 July 20232 June 20234 May 20234 April 20234 March 20234 Show more Show less