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10 Things to Take the Trauma Out of Homebuying
- Find a real estate professional who is sympathetic. Homebuying is not only a big financial commitment, but also an emotional one. It's critical that the practitioner you choose is both skilled and a good fit with your personality.
- Remember, there is no right time to buy, any more than there is a right time to sell. If you find a home now, don't try to second-guess the interest rates or the housing market by waiting. Changes do not usually occur fast enough to make that much difference in price, and a good home will not stay on the market long.
- Don't ask for too many opinions. It's natural to want reassurance for such a big decision, but too many ideas will make it much harder to make a decision.
- Accept that no house is ever perfect. Focus in on the things that are most important to you and let the minor ones go.
- Don't try to be a killer negotiator. Negotiation is definitely a part of the real estate process, but trying to win by getting an extra-low price may lose you the home you love.
- Remember your home doesn't exist in a vacuum. Don't get so caught up in the physical aspects of the house itself room size, kitchen that you forget such issues as amenities, noise level, etc., that have a big impact on what it's like to live in your new home.
- Don't wait until you've found a home and made an offer to get approved for a mortgage, investigate insurance availability, and consider a schedule for moving. Presenting an offer contingent on a lot of unresolved issues will make your bid much less attractive to sellers.
- Factor in maintenance and repair costs in your post-homebuying budget. Even if you buy a new home, there will be some costs. Don't leave yourself short and let your home deteriorate.
- Accept that a little buyer's remorse is inevitable and will probably pass. Buying a home, especially for the first time, is a big commitment, but it also yields big benefits.
- Choose a home first because you love it; then think about appreciation. While U.S. homes have appreciated an average of 5.4 percent annually from 1998 to 2002, a home's most important role is a comfortable, safe place to live.
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