Read on to discover the three things you need to know before submitting an offer on a house, as well as the best investment you can make during the first five years in your home.
3 Things to Know Before You Make an Offer on a House
Buying a home is a goal most people share - it's a great investment, a chance to build equity, and it offers a certain amount of stability that you don't get as a renter. However, you have to find the right house first.
Set a Realistic Budget
Buying a home is a very long-term commitment. So before you start scrolling through listings or popping into open houses, you need to determine how much house you can realistically afford. Think about expenses that could come up in the next five to seven years and account for them in your housing budget. Your pets may need surgeries, your air conditioning unit may break down, and any number of other expenses may pop up. Set yourself up for success by setting a realistic housing budget for yourself - one that doesn't exceed 28% of your gross income.
Get Your Money in Order
It takes years of work to get your credit and finances ready to buy a house. The buying process itself can go by in a flash. Be sure to have your money in order before you put in an offer. This will help prevent last minute disappointments caused by insufficient funds. Some things you may need to fund include inspections, earnest money, closing costs, and of course your down payment.
Don't Skip Inspections
A common misconception people have is that putting in an offer means you're going to buy the house. In reality, submitting an offer is usually just the first step toward deciding if you'll buy. Before buying, you'll still need to go through a lengthy inspections period to check for unseen problems. Although it can be tempting to speed up your sale by skipping inspections, it's important to play it safe. Your inspectors will check for mold and pests, inspect the condition of the foundation and crawl spaces they'll even tell you if the slope of the yard could cause problems with flooding and erosion.
Best Investments for the First 5 Years in Your Home
Whether you plan to live in your house for the next 15-30 years or just the next 5-7 years, you’ll want it to feel like home. Some upgrades, remodels, and refurbishes with great bang for your buck are below!
Kitchen Remodel
Because the kitchen is the heart of the home, it’s one of the most important rooms for both you, and, if you ever sell, your future buyers. Remodeling your kitchen can make the whole house better. Some things you may consider updating include the cabinet doors, countertops, wallpaper/paint, and appliances.
Curb Appeal
Making your home and yard look appealing is a great step to take in your first five years. You’ll be happier with your house, and when you eventually sell, buyers will get a positive first impression of your property. Pressure washing, adding a fresh coat of paint, or putting up new siding can make a huge difference to the house overall. Planting some greenery on either side of a freshly painted door can also add to your curb appeal.
Go with Energy-Saving Options
Your washer, dryer, refrigerator, dishwasher, toilet, and even light bulbs can cause a higher than necessary power bill. Replacing non-energy-efficient appliances early will save you money down the road. You may also want to look into energy-efficient windows.
Before you can start investing in your home, you have to find it. If you or someone you know is ready to find their next home, give me a call!
Email : DustinPellegrino@DustinsEvolution.com
WebSite: www.DustinsEvolution.com
Curious to know the Value of Your Home? Click Here https://rem.ax/2DdADGm
To download my Mobile app to search for homes on the go, please click the link below
www.getmobile.remax.com/DustinPellegrino