10 Tips for First Time Home Buyers
07 Oct 2021 by Stephanie Ligsay

Buying a house goes beyond just having good credit and being approved for a loan. Even hunting for a house can be rather complicated, despite the fact that 32% of all people shopping for houses are first time home buyers. The more you know about looking for a house, however, the easier it will be for you to find one that is right for you.

1. Begin Saving First

Save well ahead of your house hunt. You need to have a down payment, closing costs, and moving expenses saved ahead of time.

2. Work On Your Credit

The better your credit, the more likely you will be approved for a home loan, with terms that work for you. Pay all your bills in a timely manner, and try to keep your credit card balances low.

3. Research Mortgage Options

There are different options available for those seeking mortgages, depending on their circumstances. These include FHA loans, VA loans, and conventional housing mortgages.

4. Looking Into Assistance

Different assistance programs may be options for you as well. These programs vary and can help cover down payments and closing costs.

5. Get Preapproved

Those preapproved for a mortgage mean business. Having a preapproval letter can help realtors take you more seriously, and extend the number of houses you see.

6. Choose a Good Realtor

Working with a professional, experienced realtor can make your house hunt much easier, especially if they’re experienced with first time buyers.

7. Utilize Open Houses

If you see an open house, check it out, even if you aren’t sure the house will be right for you. This will allow you to explore homes in a relaxed setting.

8. Stay on Budget

Even if you really love a house, it’s probably not worth breaking your budget over. Remind yourself to stay on budget and tell your realtor to do the same.

9. Negotiate

Don’t assume that the asking price is final. Negotiating is a part of getting a great deal, and the worst they can say is no.

10. Have it Inspected

Make sure your home is well inspected before you sign on the dotted line. Additionally, ask for the seller to cover repairs.

While buying a house can be stressful, it’s always rewarding to become a homeowner. Be open to the process, and you could find a great home!

Stephanie Ligsay

"I have redefined the level of service in real estate."
Stephanie Ligsay is a powerfully engaging and magnetic agent who cares deeply about your real estate aspirations. A native to the Bay Area, she is intimately familiar with local niche markets and the defining qualities of various neighborhoods throughout Silicon Valley. Known as a results-oriented agent with more than 20 years of sales and marketing experience, Stephanie and her team deliver superb service with the spirit of hospitality.

Stephanie crafts a distinctive campaign to showcase your home, then executes an innovative plan that achieves maximum exposure among the largest number of qualified buyers. A proven, all-star negotiator, she is dedicated to getting the highest and best offer for your home.

Stephanie patiently and expertly helps buyers navigate both the fear and the enthusiasm of the purchase process, Stephanie takes pride in her caring attention to detail and clear, consistent communication.

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