Buying your first home can be an exciting, stressful time. You see what Chip & Joanna Gaines are doing on TV and you’re ready to jump in with both feet. But the search for the right home, your home, takes time.
The internet has made it easy to see new houses that come on the market. But why do you need a Realtor?
I recently caught up with two local Realtors to get the skinny on first time home buyer tips.
Gwen Kemper, CRB, CRS, GRI
Woodward Real Estate | Plattsburg, MO
Preparation is the most important item.
Reach out to a Realtor to get a list of lenders that specialize in the first time home buyer process.
A prequalification letter helps speed the process. This alerts the Buyer to know price range, type of loan and requirements that need to be handled to get a loan.
Then…seek your favorite Realtor and settle into you search.
Always be Prepared.
Debbie Hahn, ABR, CRS, GRI
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hahn REALTORS | Cameron, MO
First off, I would look for someone that has been trained and educated in the real estate business. Someone that has a buyer’s best interest at heart.
A buyer’s agent is going to help you get the best terms and conditions when buying a home. This is done by helping you understand the different loan programs available and ultimately helping you obtain a loan.
In addition, a buyer’s agent is going to help you price the home. When you’re looking at a vareity of homes, a buyer’s agent should be able to help price that home for the buyer. Your real estate agent shouldn’t just say, “this house is worth __________.” They need to prove through a Comparative Market Anaylsis (CMA) the range that the buyer should make their offer and purchase the home for.
Lastly, a Realtor is going to walk you through the inspection process. Inspections are not intended to negotiate a seller to death. Inspections help you budget for and understand maintenace.
Next Steps
There has never been a time in history for a person to buy and sell their home. The internet has changed the game. You have more tools than ever to do so.
A good Realtor is no different than the accountant you lean on at tax time to guide you in the right direction. Or your attorney who counsels you through the deep waters of law.
Who do you want on your team?
