Hey there, future homeowner!
I totally get it – the real estate journey can feel overwhelming, especially with those high interest rates making things trickier. Having the right agent & lender partners guiding you through the ‘homeowners dance’ is imperative. So many buyers without the right partners just give up and clear the dance floor before they even try to two-step.
Here are a few hacks to help you not become one of those quitters:
1. Boost that Credit Dance: Let’s do the credit score cha-cha! Work on improving your credit score – paying bills on time and reducing debt can give your score a real boost, making lenders more eager to dance with you. Remember to check your credit score often and dispute items that are not accurate.
2. Down Payment Shimmy: Saving for a down payment might feel like a slow waltz, but every small step counts. Cut back on non-essentials and put that saved cash into your down payment fund. Be sure to check out the apps available in your app store that can wrangle all those subscription costs!
3. Ninja Negotiations: Time to channel your inner negotiator! Don’t be shy to haggle with sellers, especially in this market. You might be surprised how much wiggle room there is. This is where the right agent partner can come in super handy!
4. Preapproval Party: Get preapproved for a loan before hitting the dance floor. This shows sellers you’re serious and financially ready to boogie your way into their home. Not having preapproval is like going outside in the middle of downtown with your birthday suit on in the middle of a snow blizzard. Don’t do it.
5. Location Tango: Consider neighborhoods that might not be in the spotlight yet but have potential. They could be your diamond in the rough! Also…there is less competition for these houses most of the time (aka you may be able to get a better deal).
6. DIY Breakdown: Embrace your inner handy-person! A fixer-upper might be more affordable, and with some elbow grease, you can create your dream home over time. Bubble burst incoming… there is no such thing as the perfect house. And while we are burst bubbles, here is another fun fact: most first time homebuyers plan to stay in their first home for 5-7 years. It’s not your forever home, remember that.
7. Future Forecasting: Play the long game. If you plan on staying put for a while, those interest rates might just swing back in your favor eventually. If at anytime the rates go down, you can refinance. You can’t time the market, so buy when you’re ready to buy.
Remember, it’s all about enjoying the process and taking one step at a time. Your dream home is out there doing the real estate two-step, waiting for you to join the dance!
Still not sure where to start? Click the link below to grab my FREE first-timers guide. Get all the juicy details on how to PIVOT into your new home.
