Advice for Home Buyers by Rob Thomson of Jupiter Florida
Rob Thomson Jupiter as a seasoned real estate professional, he recognizes and values the trust his clients place in him. He strives every day to exceed their expectations. As a leading figure in the industry, here are some of his tips that will help you navigate the process, save money and avoid common mistakes.
Take all decision-makers when you go house hunting.
If mom and dad have an opinion, if children have an opinion they should see every home you see that brings you to subject property because if you just take mom and dad and kids to the one you picked they don’t know that you looked at ten that didn’t suit your needs before it, they’re just going to put all their knowledge on that one house. Make sure decision-makers start the house hunt with you if there are any decision-makers. If you’re valuing their opinion they should go see all the homes if you’re just showing them home and their opinion doesn’t matter then they don’t have to go on all that. But decision-makers may not be one of the buyers but it may be mom or dad that’s very influential on that advice.
Determine what you can afford.
Scheduling appointments to look at homes without truly knowing what you can spend is equivalent to window shopping without your wallet. Working directly with a lender can help determine what you can afford and what loan programs are available based on your financial situation.
Nearly all mortgage loans and lenders require some amount of money as a down payment and the amount you’ve set aside could determine the kind of mortgage for which you qualify. But no need to fret! There are many different types of loans and programs that allow for a smaller down payment amount if you haven’t yet stashed aside a good amount of cash.
Talking to a lender is more important than ever. They can help explain the different types of financing available. They can recommend ways to improve your credit. They can introduce you to the types of programs they have available through their brokerage and answer any questions you may have about lending including what you’ll need to put aside for a down payment and closing costs.
Today, buyers face a difficult task in current market conditions due to a lack of inventory for sale and high competition from other qualified investors. Homes that are affordably priced are going under contract at an extremely active rate and prices, although slightly slowing down, are still on the rise. However, interest rates are the lowest they’ve been in over a decade while showing no signs of rising anytime soon and homes rarely depreciate. Regardless of suggestions that say it’s currently a “buyer’s” or “seller’s” market, finding the right time to buy a home for you should never be predicated solely on an opinion or variable and is something you should consider when building your plan. You may be ready tomorrow, or you may be ready in a year or two, but being prepared when that dream home does hit the market is extremely important.
Walking into a showing or open house with a pre-qualification or pre-approval letter from a lender gives not only you but the seller confidence that you’re a serious buyer. Being able to present an offer on the spot can place you in a better position when purchasing. There are many great lenders right here on Aquidneck Island that is available to help you see where you stand and answer any questions you may have about what type of mortgage is best for you.
Don’t get frustrated, enjoy the process!
Buying a house should be an enjoyable experience! As a licensed real estate agent, it is a Rob Thomson guarantee to help guide you through the journey and any answer questions you may have along the way until we get to the finish line.
You are buying not just a house, but a place to call home. A place where you may one day start and raise a family. It is an exciting time for all parties involved and there’s no better feeling than seeing the excitement on a client’s face at the closing table when they are handed the keys to their new home. For new homeowners, a sense of self-pride, immense happiness and a deep sigh of relief usually follow shortly after (along with a stiff drink or champagne to celebrate!)
Don’t take rejected offers personally. The seller is making a judgment based on what’s best for them and their families. Stay optimistic, remain attentive about new and current offerings on the market and most importantly, remember to have fun finding the home of your dreams!
