HOW TO HOUSE HUNT - Stalking The Elusive Dream

House Hunting: Stalking The Elusive Dream!

You've finally managed to save enough for a down payment and you know somewhere 'out there', the home of your dreams is calling your name. But how do you find it?

Many of us read consumer magazines and comparison shop to get the best buy on electronics or autos. Houses, condominiums and townhomes can seem a little more difficult to find, especially when you consider that buying a home is likely to be the single largest purchase in your lifetime. Panic doesn't have to be a part of the process and obtaining a great value for your money isn't all that difficult. It boils down to simply knowing how to go about it.

You probably have a general idea of where you want to live: in town, the suburbs, a specific neighborhood or school district. And you likely have a grasp on the type of home: single family residence, duplex, condo or townhome. Now is the time to sit down and make a list of 'needs' and 'wants'. Write it all down.

It helps to itemize everything. This may seem simplistic, but it's a very effective tool. Consider your needs and future plans. If you are planning for a family you might consider additional bedrooms or a large yard. If you like to entertain, you might place emphasis on cooking and dining areas. Perhaps you enjoy the outdoors; a rural setting might be appealing. If your career requires extended work hours, you might consider a condo in town that provides a short commute.

-PRIORITIZE-

A little organization goes a long way. Doing so will allow you to visualize what is most important on your list. Label essentials under category "A" and separate the remainder into "B' and "C" lists.

-FINANCING-

You will need to obtain an objective evaluation of your buying power. It is important to learn what your mortgage limit might be. Visit with a representative from your banking institution, credit union or a mortgage lender and learn what loan options are available to you.

-HOUSE HUNTING-

Now that you have a clear picture of what you want and what you can afford, it's time to enlist the aid of a REALTOR® to help you select a property that fulfills both qualifying factors. Your agent can provide you with information to assist you with your decision. Effective two-way communication is critical and will allow your real estate agent to select the homes most suitable for viewing, based on your needs and goals. Be prepared to view between 5 to 10 homes before making up your mind.

-WHAT'S IMPORTANT-

Don't be swayed by cosmetic factors. A broken door handle or strong paint colors are items that are easy to correct. Focus more on the home's structure and major systems of the home. These tend to be the more expensive items to repair or replace. View each property with a keen eye for detail and maintain a written list of all you see. Should you ultimately make an offer on the home, your agent will recommend having the home inspected by a professional(s) for unseen defects or damage.

-DECISION MAKING-

Now is the time to compare the notes you've made. How well does each home match up against your needs? When you find the home, condo or townhome that includes the majority of items in your "A" list, you're ready to take the next step and make an offer to purchase. You're on the path to becoming a home owner!

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Are you considering Buying a Home, Relocating to or from Lafayette, LA or perhaps Downsizing? If you need help with searching for a home, condo, or townhome in Lafayette, LA or greater Acadiana, contact us! We can help match you with the property that best meets your needs and goals.

We set the standard for exceptional service in Lafayette, Abbeville, Breaux Bridge, Broussard, Carencro, Crowley, New Iberia, Opelousas, Rayne, Scott, St. Martinville, Ville Platte, and Youngsville.