30 June 2021

Searching for a home is both incredibly exciting and horribly daunting. There’s so much at stake, your home will most likely be the largest asset you’ll own! It’s incredibly important to enter your search prepared, particularly for first time home buyers. Hopefully you’ve chosen to work with the right realtor, someone who will work for your best interest and who will advise you with the best of their knowledge. But it’s also important for you to be as prepared as possible before you even hire your realtor. 

Get pre-approved. I can’t say this enough, before you walk into that first showing, reach out to a mortgage broker or stop into your bank and figure out exactly what your budget will be. You may be surprised by what you can afford, and ensuring you’re pre-approved before you even think of putting an offer in will make a big difference, especially in a seller’s market. It’s far better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it! 

Is it a need or a want? It can be hard to tell the difference sometimes but it’s important to be clear. Could you be happy without an ensuite bathroom? How about the backyard, do you really need a pool or is it just a wish? Keep in mind how long you want to be in this home, if it’s a starter and you plan on moving again in five years or so then focus on aspects that will appreciate the most in value. If this is going to be your forever home, where you’ll be for a good portion of your life then you can focus more on those features that are of particular importance to you and your family. 

Communication is key! It’s so important to have a healthy, open line of communication between you and your realtor. Remember, we’re here to work for your best interest, it’s easiest to do that when it’s clear what that is. Be honest about your goals, needs, and thoughts both when you first meet and throughout the entire process. This will make the whole thing easier and will help your realtor ensure that you’re happy at the end of the day. 

Finally, be patient. It’s possible that the stars may align and you land your perfect new home after your first showing but if not try not to get too anxious. Sometimes it just takes a little more time and work. Panicking and jumping on the first listing you see without taking a moment to think critically or becoming frustrated and quitting your search prematurely won’t help anything. Try to remain optimistic and calm, as long as you’re communicating well with your realtor and being proactive you’ll get there! 

The process of searching for a new home should be fun! It’s an exciting time, and while it can also be difficult if you go into it prepared and with a positive attitude you’ll find it much easier. Get pre-approved, be clear about your needs, communicate well and be patient. These simple things will make all the difference in the world. Now get out there and find your dream home!