The Not So Scary Guide To Buying Your First Home
It's perfectly natural for first-time buyers to be a little nervous about it; after all, there are not too many larger purchases than a house in most people's lifetime. When those nerves to turn to fears, however, it can cause you to put off that purchase for fear of making a mistake. Luckily, you can take some positive steps to calm those qualms and move forward with those plans if you do a bit of preparation. You may be experiencing some of the following common fears, so read on for some help and sound advice that will put those fears to rest.
It's Not Like "The Money Pit"
If you were to believe the popular movie staring Tom Hanks, you would probably never buy a home, and neither would anyone else. Even worse, once you begin to do some preliminary research on the internet about the home-buying process, you are likely to be regaled with tales of the most horrendous purchase woes ever heard. Just take a step back and realize that there are far more content and satisfied buyers out there than unhappy ones; they just aren't venting about it on message boards, yelp and social media.
Houses with Problems
No home is perfect; even brand new quality-built custom designed very expensive homes have their little quirks and imperfections. As long you take every possible precaution to protect your interests, most home problems can be dealt with easily. While most lenders require some of the following, you should take advantage of the peace of mind they offer and have them performed regardless of any requirements.
1. Have a home inspection done: While your Realtor may recommend someone they use and trust, you should know that you are free to hire the home inspector that you want. Get some references and check them out by speaking to homeowners. You may have the inspection done before you make an offer to purchase, or afterwards. The inspector should thoroughly inspect all of the home's major systems, such as the plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling and more. Additionally, the home's structural integrity will be judged, and the entire home, from basement to roof, will be scrutinized carefully.
2. Purchase title insurance: A clear title is necessary to procure financing, and is meant to ensure that there are no liens against the property. Additionally, the title search performed will discover any gaps and discrepancies in the ownership records. The insurance protects you against any future problems with the integrity of the title.
3. Have survey performed: The valuable tool allows buyers to get an official measurement of the lot, the square footage of the home and any out-buildings and more. One of the most valuable results of a survey is the discovery of issues with easements, buildings and fences that are on other people's property (and vise versa) and home additions that were not properly permitted.
Speak to your real estate agent to learn more.
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