Buying your first home can feel overwhelming, but the process becomes much easier when you know what to do first. In the video above, Sorrentino Real Estate breaks the process down into five important steps for first-time home buyers in Buffalo and Western New York.
1. Find a Real Estate Agent You Trust
Start by finding an experienced agent who will look out for your best interests. Ask friends and family for recommendations, read reviews, and focus on finding someone you trust rather than someone simply trying to make a sale.
2. Meet With Your Agent
Before touring homes, sit down with your agent to discuss your goals, preferred areas, budget, and expectations. This is also your opportunity to make sure the relationship feels like a good fit.
3. Get Preapproved
If you are financing your purchase, get preapproved before you start seriously shopping. A good local lender can help you understand your price range, monthly payment, down payment, closing costs, and the total cash you may need at closing.
4. Start House Hunting
Once you have your agent and preapproval in place, you can start looking at homes. Your agent should help you evaluate more than appearances, including potential maintenance issues, location concerns, and factors that could affect the home’s future resale value.
5. Review the Comps Before Making an Offer
Before deciding what to offer, review comparable recent sales with your agent. The asking price does not necessarily tell you what a home is worth. Understanding what similar homes have actually sold for gives you the information you need to make an educated offer.
Ready to Buy Your First Home?
Buying your first house does not have to be complicated when you have the right people helping you along the way. If you’re considering buying a home in Buffalo or Western New York, contact the Sorrentino Real Estate team.
We’d be happy to answer your questions and help you get started. Contact us today.
