A new home purchase can be one of the most exciting and nerve-wracking things you’ll ever do. With such a big step comes serious decisions and whole lot of responsibility. That’s why so many people just continue renting rather than buying. But there’s no reason to be intimidated by the process of buying a home. Check out the following tips and you can make your first time home buying experience less intimidating and even more fun!

1. How long do plan to live in the home?

If you are going to live in the home for more than about 5 - 7 years, you should purchase it rather than rent it. Even with today’s fickle housing market, you can bet that a home purchased today will hold it’s value over this time period.  To get exact details for your area consult a licensed real estate agent that has experience in your market area.

2. Buying a home doesn’t always mean a down payment

That’s right! You don’t always have to fork over a hefty down payment before moving in. While zero down programs are a thing of the past, there are many down payment assistance programs available.  Complete the form on this site and we will have a mortgage specialist contact you to discuss your options.

3. Get Pre-Qualified

People often underestimate how important it is to get pre-qualified. Pre-qualification gives you the buying power and makes it possible for you to make an offer on your dream home the moment you’ve found it. Also, getting pre-qualified lets you know the true cost of your home in monthly payments. Qualifying can actually be a very simple process and doesn’t have to require a lot of work on your part.

4. Consult a Realtor

Though some people steer clear of realtors when searching for a home because they worry about high-pressure sales, realtors are knowledgeable of the housing market and can walk you through the entire process. They also have access to the Multiple Listing Service which features about 99% of the homes on the market.

5. Make a List of Things you Want in a Home

Begin your search by taking a systematic approach to home-buying. Create a list of the features your home must have or things you and your family want in order to find the perfect home. Whether it’s the location, the surrounding schools or the number of bedroom in the home, it’s important to know exactly what you’re looking for.