The Home Buying Process
Before You Buy a Home, A Checklist
The time has come and you are ready to buy for first or next home-sweet-home for yourself or an investment.
Before you start your search, review this checklist, which we hope will help you prepare your budget and guide you on your way to financial success in this and future real estate transactions.
1. Reduce Debt & Increase Credit Score:
Before you start looking for your next home you should request a credit report. This will give you a starting point on understanding your credit score before you request a loan. Your credit score will influence the interest rate of your loan.
2. Save Money to Set Yourself Up with a Large Down Payment:
Before starting your home search, it's important to get advice from a qualified lender about what you can afford and the minimum down payment required with new rules in Canada. You'll want to save and get as close to possible to this amount as soon as possible. This may allow you to get a better mortgage rate and you may qualify for special programs like the First-Time Home Buyers Plan or other financing options.
3. Keep a Conservative Budget
: It’s just not the list price that is included in the purchase. Keep in mind there are inspection fees, title insurance, legal fees, moving expenses, and typically new furniture purchases that you should prepare for in advance. Along with the initial closing costs and moving expenses, you should also be aware of your monthly budget moving forward. With homeownership comes property taxes, condo fees, home repairs, and more. You want to make sure you are prepared for future budgeting as well.
4. Get Pre-Approved
Your pre-approval can help if you are putting in an offer against someone who is not... makes you look like a more ready-now buyer. Your pre-approval is based on your actual income, debt, and credit history. This is different from pre-qualification, which is how a lender determines how much you can afford.
5. Set Your Home Buying Budget
By getting your finances in line before your first home showing you know the price range of a home that you can actually afford. It is important to set a realistic budget that fits your income level and characteristics you want in a home.
6. Find an Agent You Trust
An agent will be able to guide you along the way and educate you in the home buying process. Also, keep in mind an agent usually is very well connected to the other professional advisors you will need before closing day.
As you begin the process to find your next home checking these items off your list will provide you with a more successful home buying experience. Our team is here to help you! Let us know the area and/or neighbourhood you are looking to live along with your top needs our team of professionals will assist with finding your next home.
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