|
The following are guidelines for your home buying information and benefit:
|
-
Doing your homework. Knowledge is power. Tremendous information is
available on the Internet. Enter the market well prepared.
|
-
Making a wise, not shrewd, investment. Buyers need to buy based on what
fits their family. Don't try to guess what will happen to the market.
|
-
Choosing a good location. Even within a neighborhood, location matters.
Is it on the busiest street? Is there anything unsightly which can be seen from
the back window?
|
-
Not choosing an inferior floor plan for an attractive exterior. It may
have gorgeous curb appeal, but you don't live on the lawn. No matter how
attractive the exterior, you need a livable home.
|
-
Not overlooking how the house will function for your family. How do you
really live? Do you really need a formal dining room and living room? Would you
be happier with an eat-in kitchen and a great room and a den to use as a home
office? The house only needs to fit one family -- yours.
|
-
Having the home properly inspected. This is not the time for surprises.
Get an inspection from a qualified, respected professional.
|
-
Checking out the builder's reputation on a new home. Talk to three or
four people who live in the builder's homes and see what they have to say. If
one builder did all the houses in a neighborhood, talk to the residents and get
their input. This is a great way to see what your neighbors are like.
|
-
Being patient. This is a big decision. You need time. Impatient
decisions can lead to mistakes.
|
-
Not waiting for a better market and interest rates. Warren Buffett says
the rear view mirror is always clearer than the windshield.
|
-
Choosing to buy. If you can afford a home and you don't make that
purchase, you'll lose the benefit of tax deductions, building home equity and
the home's appreciation in value.
|
