Buying for Buyers: Finding a Home (Step #2)

 

Take the time to sit down and make a list of all of the things you are looking for in a home and then prioritize that list. This will help you clearly define what is really important to you and what is not. Putting your thoughts down on paper can make a huge difference and knowing exactly what it is you are looking for will save you time and help you avoid frustration. For more information on this, read my post “Like it, Love it, Gotta Have it”.

 

Many buyers, especially first time home buyers, are unaware that hiring a real estate professional will not cost them anything. Here is how it works. When someone decides to list a home with a real estate professional they agree to pay their agent a commission. Their agent will then agree to split that commission with whatever agent represents the buyers that purchase the home. That means that buyers can be represented by a real estate professional for free. Hiring a professional with experience in the market and the process is invaluable and the price is right.

 

One of the biggest mistakes I see buyers make is trying to look at everything. Once you have decided what you are looking for focus on those few homes that best fit your criteria. If you don't find what you are looking for then expand your search, but try not to get caught in the trap of always wondering if there is something better out there. This is one thing on Pine Island where there are a limited number of properties for sale, but I have heard more than once, “I would like to look at all of the three bedroom, two bath homes on the market in Cape Coral”. I then have to explain that we would need to go out everyday from now until 2013 in order to see them all. Buyers who are too afraid of missing out to ever commit usually end up losing the perfect home.

 

With the right help and preparation this can be an exciting and even fun part of the process of buying a home.