Tips for Home Buyers

Sharon Holland, Realtor®, shares these tips when searching for and buying your home: 

1. Get a Pre-Approved Mortgage

Before you even consider looking at purchasing a house or property, get pre-approved for your mortgage so that you know how much you can afford. This means that a lender has looked at your financial information and have advised you as to how much your can afford and how much they will lend you.  This will save you time and energy and avoids disappointment looking at homes that are out of your price range.  This also gives you the opportunity to shop around for the best deal and interest rates.

2. Get Organized

As you will likely be visiting more than one property and looking at many different listings, the information can become confusing. Sharon recommends to keep notes for your appointments, personal checklists, and also have a folder or portfolio for brochures and other information.

3. Use the Internet

Take advantage of all the information, articles, and listings that are available online and discuss them with Sharon, your local realty specialist.

4. Ask Questions

Buying a home is a major financial commitment and you are encouraged to stay in close contact with your Realtor® and ask lots of questions about the process of viewing and buying a home or property. 

5. Visit the Neighbourhood at Different Times

Get to know the neighbourhood at different times of the day, during the week, and on the weekend.   Factors such as nearby schools, bus routes, rush-hour traffic, or noise/fumes from nearby industry can affect the enjoyment and value of your home. Check out the location of local grocery stores, other services, and your commute to work, and don't by shy about asking the neighbours about the area.