3 Tips First-Time Buyers Can’t Afford to Ignore

Published On: August 2, 2016|Categories: Uncategorized|

3 tips first time buyers can't ignore - buy a home for sale tampa bay

If you’re looking to buy a home in Tampa Bay or the surrounding area, welcome to one of the most exciting times in your life. Buying a home can be as daunting as it is exciting, and many people may not know where to begin. Thankfully, the first of our top three tips will set you along the right path.

Tip #1: Enlist a Realtor’s® Help

Whether you’re buying a home or selling one, working with an experienced local Realtor will give you access to a wealth of knowledge and resources. Your Realtor’s market knowledge, professional networks and expert advice are an indispensable resource.

Additionally, these benefits come at no cost to homebuyers. Having a Realtor at your side can result in an easier home search, fewer stumbling blocks and a fairer price than you’d be likely to negotiate on your own. You literally can’t afford not to take advantage of these valuable services.

Tip #2: Begin With a Mortgage Pre-Approval

The first step in your homebuyer’s journey should be to meet with a loan officer for mortgage pre-approval. This will help you determine what type of mortgage is best suited to you and give you a firm budget to work with. When you find the right home to buy, you’ll be ready to make an offer—and the seller will see that you’re a serious buyer.

Tip #3: Don’t Overextend Your Budget

With mortgage pre-approval in hand, you know your price range. While it may be tempting to stray above your limit “just a little”, this can be a huge mistake. You don’t want to risk falling behind on your mortgage, particularly early on when you have little equity on the home. It may be discouraging to have to walk away from a home that’s out of your budget, but it’s even more discouraging to spend years barely scraping by because your house payment is too burdensome.

Are You Looking for a New Home in Tampa Bay?

When you’re ready to start looking at homes for sale in Hillsborough CountyPasco County or Pinellas County, we’re here to help.

Call us at 727-584-8480 or 813-961-6000. If it’s easier, get in touch with us online. We’ll begin searching for your new home right away.