This information was published in my Washington Realtors magazine for this month. I really think that they nailed the overall feeling homebuyers go through and the steps that they suggest really do seem to make sense. Now, I’m not a tool for the Realtors association as those of you that know me know for yourselves. This information is just really good common sense and I want to share it with you because I find it valuable. No matter what the source is.

1. Find a real estate agent that’s simpatico. Homebuying is not only a big financial commitment, but also an emotional one. It’s critical that the agent you choose is both skilled and a good fit with your personality.

2. Remember, there’s no “right” time to buy, any more than there is a right time to sell. If you find a home now, don’t try to second guess the market by waiting. Changes don’t usually occur fast enough to make that much difference in price and a good home won’t stay on the market long.

3. Factor in maintenance and repair costs in your post home buying budget. Even if you buy a new home, there will be some costs. Don’t leave yourself short and let your home deteriorate.

4. Accept that a little buyer’s remorse is inevitable and will probably pass. Buying a home, especially for the first time, is a bit commitment, but it also yields big benefits.

5. Choose a home first because you love it; then think about appreciation. While U.S. homes have appreciated an average of 5.4% annually from 1998 to 2002, a home’s most important role is as a comfortable, safe place to live.

6. Don’t ask for too many opinions. It’s natural to want reassurance for such a big decision, but too many ideas will make it much harder to make a decision.

7. Accept that no house is ever perfect. Focus in on the things that are most important to you and let the minor ones go.

8. Don’t try to be a killer negotiator. Negotiation is definitely a part of the real estate process, but trying to “win” by getting an extra-low price may lose you the home you love.

9. Remember your home doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Don’t get so caught up in the physical aspects of the house itself-room size, kitchen- that you forget such issues as amenities, noise level, etc., that have a big impact on what it’s like to live in your new home.

10. Don’t wait until you’ve found a home and made an offer to get approved for a mortgage, investigate insurance availability, and consider a schedule for moving. Presenting an offer contingent on a lot of unresolved issues will make your bid much less attractive to sellers.

These are all great points. I am going to expand on this post with follow up posts that cover the bullet points in greater detail.

First time buyers you need to make sure you are working with someone who is both good Realtor and a good fit for you.

We would love to have the opportunity to get to know you better and to see if we would be a good fit to be your Realtors. Please give us a call today at 253-219-1194 to discuss how Classic Homes Northwest can help you buy your next home.