First Time Home Buyers; Now Is Your Time To Dive In
Interest rates are now on your side. It’s time to stop renting and start putting all that hard earned money of yours into something of your own. However, this can be a complex transition. Here are some steps to help make sure this transition is as smooth as possible.
First, you need to know your money. Know where you stand with bills and how much more you can afford. Make a budget on what you now spend monthly and yearly, and then make a budget to what you think you will need to spend to purchase a house. This may take a little research, but in the long run this will pay off to know what you are looking to spend and can afford.
Second, know your credit. Make sure your credit is in good standing. Try to pay off any outstanding bills that could possibly damage your credit score. If you have a high balance on an item, pay it down. This will show lenders that you are responsible with your money and your debt. This may also take some research, but fortunately there are many places to go to check and see how your credit stands.
Third, know what you are looking for. Do some shopping online or just driving around the designated area in which you would like to live. Learn the things you need and want out of your new home. Figure out which ones you can live with and without.
Once you have an idea of what you can and are willing to spend, and know what you are looking for, contact a trusted realtor. Ask around to your friends and family and see who they recommend. Sometimes the best referrals are from the ones closest to you who know you. Interview the realtor and make sure they have a game plan in mind to serve you to what your needs and wants are. Don’t settle for anything less than the best.
Use these few steps to get started and before you know it, you will be on your way to getting the home of your dreams!
Brian Salem
Brian grew up in the Dayton, OH area and moved to Cleveland after graduating from Bowling Green State University in 2001. From his first visit to Cleveland he fell in love with the area and decided to settle in Lakewood. Brian feels there are so many great things Northeast Ohio has to offer, from Lake Erie and the many activities on and around its shores, to the downtown area with the theater, Gateway and warehouse districts, to the exciting sports teams. People in Cleveland are friendly and welcoming, and love to show off their city to newcomers. He is excited to be a part of it. Brian's career is focused on helping individuals and families in the Cleveland area reach their dreams of owning a home. Since earning his license, he has helped over 700 clients buy or sell their home. He also volunteers with different community groups and organizations, such as the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce and Rotary, to help improve the quality of life and develop programs for residents in the community. In his spare time Brian likes to read and is active in many different sports leagues.