Ist time home buyers

Since my passion is working with 1st time home buyers, I just wanted to give you a little more advice. After you have decided that it's time for you to start looking for a 1st home, get yourself pre-approved. This way you know exactly what you can afford. You won't be wasting your time, the agent's time, the seller's time looking at homes you can't afford that way.

Now that you've gotten yourself pre-approved, start attending open houses in that price range. You are doing this for 2 reasons: you are seeing first hand what the inventory is like AND you are interviewing agents that you might consider starting a relationship with. How does the agent greet you when you enter? Does he/she shake your hand? What type of handshake is it: a cold fish or one so strong, you think your hand may be broken. Your relationship with your new REALTOR should fit like a glove. The initial handshake is a clear message whether you will "click" or not. Does the agent look you in the eye when he/she is talking to you? If you feel welcome by someone, you are more likely to pursue a relationship then if he/she is looking all around and makes you feel like an inconvenience.

Most likely you will be asked if the agent can contact you after the open house. If you didn't feel comfortable, you can politely turn them down. If you felt a "click" then let them know you are just starting your search and would prefer to contact them when you're ready. Ask for their business card, graciously leave and then go to another house and do this all over.

It's sort of like test driving a car. One other very important thing, if the agent doesn't know much about the house she's hosting, then there should also be cause for concern here.

This is an exciting yet scary time. Don't be afraid if, after working with someone for a while, it doesn't seem right. Try talking it out with him/her. Is he not listening to your needs. Does he respond quickly enough to your voice mails, texts and emails? Does she show you homes you've specifically said you're not interested in? If frustration is beginning to set in and talking doesn't work, go back to open houses and start again.

Just remember that real estate, like any profession has poor (unfortunately), good, better, best agents. Sometimes it's trial and error. Just listen and you will learn. Trust that he/she knows this business wants you to be successful in this journey towards your first home.

My client's #1 goal is my # 1 goal.

Margo