Purchasing a new home comes with a lot of responsibilities. For most people, it will be their biggest and most important life investment, so you need to be aware of what is involved with such a large purchase in order to ensure that you have made the right decision.
The following is a list of factors to consider when buying a new home:
Determine Your Home Requirements: Before you purchase a new home, you should consider what type of home will be needed for your present and future needs. Do you have a family or will you be expanding your family in the future? How many bedrooms and bathrooms will you need? As well, what type of environment do you want to live in? Do you prefer a rural community or more urban. You also have to look at such areas as proximity to schools, retail stores, and work. As well, do you want a condo, duplex, or a home with a large property? You have to make sure you have considered all housing options. This will help narrow your search.
Financing Options: Financing is a major factor to take into consideration when buying a new home. The majority of new home buyers will have to get a mortgage. You must determine how much of a mortgage you can actually afford. Consider visiting a mortgage site and using their mortgage calculator. This tool will give you an estimate of how much you can actually afford. Remember you have to consider added expenses such as legal fees, closing costs, building inspector fees, title transfer fees, taxes...etc.
Mortgage Pre-approval: Before you find a new home, you should get a mortgage pre-approval from a trustworthy lender. This will help you narrow your home search. First, make sure you have a clean credit history. Check for any errors on your credit report and have them corrected. Pay off any outstanding bills. Comparison shop for a mortgage lender as mortgage products will vary. Consider whether you should get a fixed rate or variable rate. As well, look at the pros and cons of a 15 year and 30 year mortgage.
Hire A Real Estate Agent: Real estate agents have a great deal of knowledge about the housing market. They have knowledge of the community and their resources and amenities, the value of the other homes in the neighborhood, whether the price of a home for sale is fair, and how to properly make an offer and counter offer. They can also show you homes that meet your needs. As well, a real estate agent will know of any important issues about the home, property, and community.
Home Inspector: It is important to get a home inspector to inspect the home you are considering buying. An inspector will be able to note any problems with the structural integrity of the home, foundation, roof, septic, plumbing, electrical...etc. You do not want to buy a home and find out you have an enormous repair bill.
Buying new homes is not only an exciting time in your life, but is also a time that requires much thought and planning. Considering the above factors when purchasing a new home will help ensure that you purchase a home that is not only right for you and your family, but also a home that you can afford.
Author Resource:
An innovative residential home builder Southwestern Ontario, provides energy efficient new homes in the Guelph homes, London Ontario Home and Kitchener home markets.