With so many properties for sale and so many factors to consider, the decision to buy a house is not one to be taken lightly. First-time homebuyers will need more than a real estate agent—they’ll need a partner to provide indispensable counsel along the way. That’s where Leaurel and Amber Lube of Keller Williams Realty come in. These Concord, NC, agents have the tenacity and experience to get you into your dream home.

Here’s What First-Time Home Buyers Should Know

1. Scout Your Location 

It’s not enough to have a vague idea of where you might want to buy a house, like the east side of the city. Neighborhoods can drastically differ, even from one block to the next, affecting property values, tax rates, and school districts. It’s good to have a firm idea of exactly where you want to live—that way, you avoid any letdowns.

2. Gather Your Paperwork

The market can move fast, so it’s a good idea to have all of your necessary documents gathered and ready for the moment you make an offer. These include credit card statements, paycheck stubs, student loan information, recent utility bills, and any other paperwork a mortgage lender might want to see. Consult with your Keller Williams Realty agent for a checklist. And as a bonus, this will also give you a clearer picture of what you can afford.

3. Save Your Money

A good rule of thumb is to have at least 20 percent of the house's purchase price saved as a down payment. You can certainly buy a house with less, but be prepared for a lengthier loan with higher interest rates. A standard home mortgage is 30 years, but if you can make a larger down payment and secure a 15-year mortgage loan, you are much more likely to get more favorable terms.

House hunting is an exciting step in any person’s life, and there are many factors for first-time homebuyers to think about. Get your search started by visiting Keller Williams Realty online today. Or, call Leaurel at (704) 467-0685 or Amber at (704) 577-5966.