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Buyer's Q & A | Finding the Right Home
Q: What is the first step to buying a home?
A: Finding out what you can afford is one of the first steps, which can be done by pre-qualifying for a home loan. This step will help you narrow your search for both a neighborhood and particular houses. Pre-qualification is a simple calculation considering several factors, primarily your income. There are no guarantees with a prequalification, but it will be expected of you when you make an offer on a home.
Q: Do we dig deep and buy a dream home or settle for a starter home?
A: Choosing between a smaller house in an affluent neighborhood, an older, bigger house in a more working-class community or a brand-new home is not easy. Start by examining your priorities and asking the following questions:
- Is the neighborhood or the home itself the most important consideration?
- Is the neighborhoods safe?
- What is quality of the schools, supermarkets, churches, hospitals, fire and police stations?
- What zoning regulations apply?
- What community services are available?
- Have the homes appreciated or depreciated?
- What tax rates prevail?
Also go to FREE REPORTS: “8 Secrets for Saving Thousands When Finding, Buying and Financing Your Home” and “49 Essential Tips Every Home Buyer Should Know.”
Q: What’s the best way to know what kind of home is right for me?
A: Examine your lifestyle carefully. Ask yourself:
- How much time do I expect to be at home?
- Do I really like slinging a hammer?
- Do I like neighbors around, but want a good-sized home, not an apartment?
- What style of home attracts me?
Q: What should I look for in a new home?
A: Here are some of the signs of good construction:
- Good carpentry throughout;
- Solid structure with sturdy support;
- Basement floors and walls that have no cracks or damp spots;
- Insulation that measures as required;
- Everything in good working order;
- A yard free of low, wet spots, grading that slopes away from the home for good drainage.
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