10 Things to Take the Trauma Out of Home Buying

Posted on April 29, 2014 by Erin Johnston
  1. Find a real estate agent that’s simpatico. Home buying is not only a big financial commitment, but also an emotional one. It’s critical that the agent you choose is both skilled and a good fit with your personality
  2. Remember, there is no “right” time to buy, any more than there is a right time to sell. If you find a home now, don’t try to second guess the interest rates or the housing market by waiting. Changes don’t usually occur fast enough to make that much difference in price and a good home won’t stay on the market long.
  3. Don’t ask for too many opinions. It’s natural to want reassurance for such a big decision, but too many ideas will make it harder to decide.
  4. Accept that no house is ever perfect. Focus on the things that are most important to you and let the minor ones go.
  5. Don’t try to be a killer negotiator. Negotiation is definitely a part of the real estate process, but trying to “win” by getting an extra low price may lose you the home you love.
  6. Remember your home doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Don’t get so caught up in the physical aspects of the house itself- room size, kitchen, etc.- that you forget such issues as amenities, noise level, etc. that have a big impact on what it’s like to live in your new home.
  7. Don’t wait until you’ve found a home and made an offer to get approved for a mortgage, investigate insurance availability, and consider a schedule for moving. Presenting an offer contingent on a lot of unresolved issues will make you bid much less attractive to sellers.
  8. Factor in maintenance and repair costs is your post-home buying budget. Even if you buy a new home, there will be some costs. Don’t leave yourself short and let your home deteriorate.
  9. Accept that a little buyer’s remorse is inevitable and will probably pass. Buying a home, especially for the first time, is a big commitment, but always yields big benefits.
  10. Choose a home first because you love it, then think about appreciation. After all a home’s most important role is as a comfortable, safe place to live.
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