Liz May - THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO BUYING A HOME

CHAPTER 5 Searching for the Rig or the Right Home ht Home

Buying a home is exciting, but finding the right one can be daunting. It’s a major investment, and it's a time to make lifestyle decisions. A home purchase isn’t like buying a pair of shoes that are a bit snug from the department store—you can’t just return the house if you’re not satisfied. Once you buy, you’re committed. To avoid costly mistakes that could haunt you for years, you must do your homework properly when house hunting.

VIEWING A HOME

For most people, touring homes they like is a thrilling experience. It’s tempting to think it's the first step to buying a home, but it’s not. Assuming you have your down payment, mortgage preapproval, and other financial issues handled, the first thing you need to do before viewing any home is to determine what you’re looking for. • What are your criteria? • Do you need a certain number of bedrooms and bathrooms? • Do you want a yard? Is a separate garden area necessary for your lifestyle? • Do you want property only in particular neighborhoods? • How much are you willing or able to spend?

Answering these questions will save you significant time and

40

Powered by