So, you’ve decided to buy a house in the upcoming year—congratulations! The key to meeting this goal is being proactive, whether you’re looking for a bank loan or landing a reputable real estate agent. Before you start navigating the market, ensure you have all your ducks in a row with the help of the following to-do list.

4 Must-Do’s for Buying a House

1. Make Lists

As you start to brainstorm your dream home, don’t allow the thoughts to fade away—write them down as you go. Make lists for essential features—such as multiple stories, a patio, or an extra bedroom for a child—as well as ideal locations for your house. As you peruse the area, you can refer to these lists for inspiration, as well as to stay focused.

2. Establish a Budget

Financial preparation is key to buying a home on a strict timeline, so schedule a meeting at your bank as soon as you’re serious about moving forward. You can talk with a professional about your current income and savings and find out what you can afford to spend on a down payment. This is also an excellent opportunity to get pre-approved for a mortgage loan, which will make the buying process go faster and smoother.

3. Hire an Agent

Once you’ve worked out a budget, meet with a real estate agent and go over your criteria for your new home. A reputable agent will be able to show you listings that meet those must-haves, as well as your financial limitations.

4. Get a Home Inspection

Once you’ve found your dream home, you might be tempted to sign on the dotted line as soon as you get the chance. However, if there are any pest infestations, plumbing issues, or structural flaws hiding in the property, you could be in for a rude and expensive awakening post move-in. To stay away from problem homes, schedule a professional home inspection. This step will also be crucial for financing options, such as mortgage loans from your bank.

If you’re ready to make buying a home a reality this year, make an appointment at Magnolia Bank of Hodgenville, KY. One of their trusted staff members will sit down with you to work out your financing options, so you can move forward with peace of mind about your investment. This trusted bank is committed to forming rewarding, lifelong connections with their clients, so you’ll always have a financial expert in your corner. For more information on their services, visit the website, or call (270) 358-3183.