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When you decide to buy a home for the first time, you will come across numerous insider tips and tricks intended to guide you through the process smoothly. However, some of the most essential words of advice are also the simplest. As Waterloo, IL’s top real estate agent, JoAnn Meier at RE/MAX First Choice has successfully helped many first-time buyers close on the home of their dreams.

Sharing some valuable insight about the market, she provides the following suggestions to better prepare you for your first home-buying experience:

  • Determine Your Budget: The first step to investing in real estate is determining how much you can afford. Without this piece of information, you will have no idea what your price range is to even begin your search. You must figure out a budget that includes your monthly payment, insurance, property taxes, repairs, and all the other expenses that come with home ownership.

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  • Get Pre-Approved For A Mortgage: Before you start shopping around, it’s smart to get pre-approved for a mortgage loan. This will also have a significant impact on how much you have to spend, as well as show sellers how serious you are about buying. If you come across a property you know you want without a doubt, you can make an offer without delay and eliminate the worry of missing out on it while you’re waiting to get approved.
  • Create A Wish List: Knowing what you’re looking for in a home is helpful because it will narrow down your choices and keep you from becoming overwhelmed with all the real estate listings that are available. The key to creating your list is to prioritize your needs and separate your wants, understanding which features and amenities would be nice to have but aren’t going to make or break the deal.
  • Don’t Skip The Home Inspection: The home inspection is one of the most crucial parts of the home-buying process. First-time buyers often think they can save a little bit of extra money by skipping this stage, only to learn the hard way why it’s so important. This will protect your investment and ensure the home is in good condition or reveal significant and costly problems before it’s late.
  • Work With A Real Estate Agent: When making the largest purchase of your life, there is nothing more valuable than the assistance of an experienced real estate agent. They will have extensive knowledge about local neighborhoods and fair market value, in addition to taking much of the burden off your shoulders when it comes to paperwork and negotiations.

Utilizing these basic tips can make a considerable difference in how well your home-buying experience goes. To speak with a reputable real estate agent, contact JoAnne Meier at RE/MAX First Choice at (618) 939-6003. You can also visit her online to browse current listings. 

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