Buying a home is one of the most stressful things anyone can do, but if you do it right, you could be set up with your dream home. If you’re headed toward Fort Lauderdale, you’re fortunate enough to be on the right track for affordability and fun. This city knows how to make anyone feel at home.
These are the steps to buy a home here and why Fort Lauderdale should be anyone’s choice.
1. Figure Out Your Budget and Get Approved
Although Fort Lauderdale homes for sale are some of the most affordable in the state, you’ll still need to stop and set a realistic budget for yourself. This is easiest done when you’ve spoken to your lender and figured out how much they’re willing to loan you.
It’s a good idea to budget for less than the full loan amount so you don’t bite off a huge monthly payment. You can always upgrade your home in ten years, but you don’t want to make yourself house-poor.
2. Decide On Your Wants and Needs
What are the parts of a home or community that you need to have? What are the things you simply want? A need is any part of a house that you have to have, or you won’t accept it. This might mean three bedrooms, or it could be that you need an accessible garage and entrance.
Wants are simply items that you would like to have, but you can accept a property that doesn’t have them if need be. Usually, a want is something you can add later.
3. Talk to a Realtor or Agent
Although you can possibly do this on your own, it’s better to have a pro on your side. Talk to a realtor or real estate agent who knows what they’re doing, and see if they’ll help you purchase a property. They do cost around 3% of your future home’s value, so don’t be shy about shopping around.
4. Tour Homes and Be Thorough
Look at some properties! This is the fun part, but you need to be thorough. What do you like or dislike about each home? Tell your realtor or agent these points so they can pick better homes in the future.
5. Be Careful About Your Inspection and Remember You’re in a Buyers’ Market
Once you pick the property, get an inspection done on it! If it needs work, keep in mind that we’re currently going into a buyers’ market, which means you have more wiggle room and can ask for things like for them to reduce the cost of a new fence or repairs that are needed.
7. Seal the Deal!
The best part of buying a home is to finally seal the deal! When they get the price to what you want and the inspection is settled, you can eventually sign the paperwork. Closing can take a while, depending on the current owners, but then all you have to worry about is moving and settling in. Don’t forget to celebrate! This is a huge move for anyone.
Buying a Home is a Big Choice
Whether you’re buying your first home or your fifth, it’s vital that you stop and pick the best property possible. Consider these tips before you start, and you’ll find your dream home in no time.
