Three Tips for Happy House Hunting

The search for the perfect home can be an exciting process – and at times, a daunting one.

From getting a handle on your needs and preferences to ensuring you have a reliable team supporting you, there are a few straightforward steps you can take at the outset of your homebuying journey to start on the right foot:

1) Get a handle on your “must haves” and “must nots.” Knowing what you absolutely need – or what you absolutely can’t stand – in a home allows you to narrow down the options and saves you valuable time. Whether it’s a spacious yard, a specific part of town, or a certain floorplan, outlining your priorities ahead of time is a great move. We’ve made a handy checklist you can download and print to help you compare and prioritize the homes you’re considering.

2) Don’t underestimate the power of a great real estate agent. When you’re navigating uncharted territory, it’s important to have a trustworthy guide. That’s what a good real estate agent is to your home-buying journey! The best real estate agents will get to know your wants and needs in a home. They will stay on top of market trends. They have a strong working knowledge of the community. And when it’s time to make an offer, they’ll be a strong advocate and negotiator for you. That’s the power of a great agent.

3) Keep one eye on the future. Think ahead! Consider your future plans and how they might affect your choice of a home. Maybe you expect your family to grow. Maybe you need a great home office for remote work. Whatever it is, envisioning your future can help you make a decision you’ll be happy with for years to come.

The team of mortgage loan officers at First International Bank & Trust is always ready to help you, no matter where you are on the journey to buying, building, or refinancing a home. Click here to get connected with an expert you can trust in your region!