Chris O'Shea
- Check that credit. One of the biggest items considered by mortgage lenders is your credit score. Long before you start touring houses, check up on your credit to make sure there are no mistakes then work to get your score into the best shape possible.
- Be patient. It would be great if you got to move into your new home as soon as your offer was accepted, but that’s not the way it works. As Marketwatch reports, sometimes buying a home can take what seems like forever. That means while it might take a few weeks to have things all signed, sealed, and delivered, it could take a few months. Be patient. As long as you have an accepted offer, the house isn’t going anywhere.
- Emotions will run rampant. There are lots of highs and lows involved in buying a house, especially your first one. It seems like a huge life moment because that’s exactly what it is. When your heart rate starts going wild for a house, do your best to keep an even keel. If you get too caught up in the emotions of buying a home, you could overpay and regret it down the line. Remember that there are lots of houses for sale — one will come along eventually. If you spot one that’s way over budget yet feels like a dream home, it’s probably not worth spreading your finances too thin. Keep calm, knowing your time will come.
- Houses will have problems. It’s not uncommon for issues to arise after you’ve moved into your new home. Be aware of that (pay very careful attention during your inspection) and you’ll be able to deal with the situation rationally. Yes, even brand-new homes can have problems that need addressing, from a leaky roof to an incorrectly-installed drain pipe. Buying a home isn’t a perfect process, but it’s a journey that is well worth taking.ion rationally. Yes, even brand-new homes can have problems that need to be addressed, from a leaky roof to an incorrectly-installed drain pipe. Buying a home isn’t a perfect process, but it’s a journey that is well worth taking.
Jean Chatzky
