Buying your first home is an adventure, but it’s also a huge investment and a complex process that many people find intimidating. With fast-moving real estate markets across the country, many first-time homebuyers aren’t even sure where to begin. The following tips can help you find the home you’ve always dreamed of while avoiding common pitfalls that often catch buyers by surprise.

3 Real Estate Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

1. Clean Up Your Credit

Your credit rating will have a significant impact on your mortgage rate and fees, so taking steps to boost your score can save thousands of dollars in the long run. Several months before you start shopping, get a free copy of your credit report and report any mistakes immediately. Paying off your credit cards and other debts can improve your debt-to-income ratio, which has a major impact on your credit rating.

2. List Your Wants & Needs

When looking at properties, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and make a spontaneous offer on a house that doesn’t fit your needs. Before looking at your first house, figure out what features you’d like, and what qualities you absolutely must have. Eliminating properties that don’t meet your basic requirements will save time and narrow down your options.

3. Hire a Real Estate Agent

An experienced Realtor® will guide you through the market, find properties you’ll like, and help you decide how much to offer. The best agents will get in touch as soon as a potential property hits the market, giving you an edge over other house hunters. The best part is that their fees are paid by the seller, making these services essentially free to you.
 

Whether you’re shopping for your first home or buying an investment property, Big Journey Homes - Lauri Bauman has the experience and detailed market knowledge you need. For 18 years, she’s been helping buyers throughout Denton, Lake Dallas, Frisco, Flower Mound, Argyle, McKinney, and Corinth, TX. Visit her website now to start browsing homes for sale, and call (940) 321-5111 or text (214) 566-1088 to get in touch. For more real estate tips and updates, follow her on Facebook today.