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.
Newest Listings in Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia
Looking for a getaway with privacy or a all year round home to go to? Look no more! This cozy 2 bedroom one bath house on a very quiet lane is ready for a new owner to ma...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 202211789 MLS
Looking for a getaway with privacy or a all year round home to go to? Look no more! This cozy 2 bedroom one bath house on a very quiet lane is ready for a new owner to ma...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 202211788 MLS
This side by side 2 bedroom duplex is a great opportunity for investment. Whether you are buying your first home and want to live in half while collecting rent on the ot...
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 202211785 MLS
Welcome to 4935 Newport Station, an 1811 sq ft home situated on a 2.5 acre sheltered lot, nestled in a grove of trees on Hwy 1. This Spacious two story boasts 4 bedrooms...
- 5 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 202211779 MLS
Are you frustrated in not being able to get an accepted offer on a property of interest due to the current active market conditions? Well, here is another opportunity. Th...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 202211772 MLS
Just over 9 acres of land on the Valley Floor!!! Century home with tons of character and a solid two story barn. The barn has a couple horse stalls, large open loft, cold...
- 4 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 202211746 MLS
Just over 9 acres of land on the Valley Floor!!! Century home with tons of character and a solid two story barn. The barn has a couple horse stalls, large open loft, cold...
- 4 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 202211745 MLS
This spacious 4-bedroom home offers a country feel with stunning valley views, yet only minutes to nearby Greenwood amenities and 14 Wing! Sitting on a landscaped 1.8-acr...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 202211740 MLS
Neat and tidy, this split entry home is a pleasure to show! Situated on a rural lot just shy on an acre, yet close to amenities and schools with Kingston, Greenwood and h...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 202211736 MLS
Large building lot located in the charming Currys Corner area - just minutes to Highway 101, Ski Martock, Avon Valley Golf Course and the Town of Windsor. Municipal water...
- 202211733 MLS
Opportunity awaits! Formerly operated as a convenience store, this property offers so much potential. On the main floor you will find a large 34x44 open space including w...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 202211714 MLS
Opportunity awaits! Formerly operated as a convenience store, this property offers so much potential. On the main floor you will find a large 34x44 open space including w...
- 202211710 MLS
Welcome to McDougall Heights! You will love this fantastic family home, offering four bedrooms, lots of space, great curb appeal and a desirable back yard! Enter from the...
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 202211687 MLS
Excellent building lot in a well established subdivision. This 1.75 acre, treed lot with river frontage on the Cornwallis River holds great potential for your new build. ...
- 202211625 MLS
Welcome to Prospect Road. This 12-year-old, quality-built bungalow is the perfect location for a family to grow and be close to all the amenities New Minas has to offer. ...
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 202211624 MLS
On the fence about life in a subdivision? Take a look at this one. This home has lots of privacy, easy access to the main road... HWY 1, minutes to the HWY 101, shopping ...
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 202211613 MLS
This 228.5 acre property with cultivated fields, timber value, and incredible views is prime real estate for anyone who wants to have a hobby farm, massive estate acreage...
- 202211608 MLS
Minas Heights, a family oriented subdivision… This 3 bedroom home has been well taken care of over the years of ownership. The main level offers a kitchen with lots of c...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 202211551 MLS
One Owner Home!!! Looking for a family home that is just out of town but so close, this could be the home for you. This private home is located on just under a half acre...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 202211550 MLS
This 10+acre retreat & home includes the most phenomenal frontage on the Herbert River! Swim, fish, garden or simply daydream, all while being a 15 minute jaunt to 101 ac...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 202211537 MLS
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