A
first time home buyer gets a lot of information and advice handed to
them as soon as they announce that they are ready to start looking for
a house. They have parents, other relatives, friends,
coworkers, and even people they don't know providing "helpful hints"
and "war stories" of house buying problems. These people all
mean well but they can add extra stress and create problems for the
hopeful buyers.When you start looking for a home you normally search the Internet for houses in your price range in the area you would like to move to. While it is nice to ask people what they think about particular location remember that you are the ones who will be living there so do your own research and trust your instincts and knowledge while considering what they are saying.
When you have finally found "THE HOUSE" don't be surprised if your friends and relatives are not as excited about it as you are. Remember that they have not looked at the many houses that you rejected in the price range and may not have a realistic picture of what you can afford. So many times I have seen people walk away from a perfectly good house because a parent or other "helper" finds the house lacking. Of course we all want the best for our friends and family but unless you have seen the rest you can't judge the best.
Using a friend or relative as a home inspector or attorney can also cause problems. It is important to use service providers familiar with local conditions and practices. Using someone who while qualified for the job does not practice in the area you are buying in can create it's own set of problems.
So what should you as the first time home buyer do with all this advise? Thank the person for their concerns and then speak with an expert in real estate. Hire a Buyer's Agent" to help you. Working with a Buyer's Agent puts you one step ahead of other home buyer's because you have someone who will provide you with experienced help while you search for your property, when you find the house you want to make an offer on, after your offer is accepted with assistance in finding the services you need to help you as you move towards buying your place, and be with you right through to the closing and beyond.
If you are looking for
real estate in the Greater Hudson Valley of New York (Orange, Ulster,
or Sullivan Counties)
I would love to
help you in your search. If you are looking anywhere else I would be
happy to refer you to an agent who will help you.