Do your plans for Spring Break include looking for a new home? Well, you’re in luck! Spring is an excellent time to buy a home. This is the season that the real estate market starts to heat up, and you’ll find more homes for sale then you did just a month or two ago. In order to maximize your house hunting over Spring Break, this is what you need to know.
Get pre-approved for a mortgage
It always bears repeating – before you begin your home search in earnest, you should get pre-approved for a mortgage. Now that the real estate market is gaining steam, there will be more buyers competing for the same homes. When you get pre-approved for a mortgage, you signal to a seller that you are serious about buying. Not only does it help you get all your financial ducks in a row, it gives you a leg up over the competition.
Check out the neighborhood
There’s nothing like seeing a neighborhood in person, which is why it’s so great to use your time off over Spring Break to search for a home. But keep in mind you won’t have unlimited time, and you’ll want to use it wisely. Gather as much information as you can online before visiting a potential new neighborhood. You can find out so much valuable data, such as crime rates, school reviews, and distance to public transportation, shopping and other amenities. When you do this research before you arrive, you’ll be able to narrow down which homes are real contenders, and which ones you can mark off your list.
Make your wish list
Another way to make the best use of your time is to decide what you’re looking for in a home before you see them in person. Sit down and make a list of what you need, what you want, and what you wish for. Understand your priorities and make an agreement with your spouse or significant other about what aspects of a home are most important to you. How many bedrooms do you need? Do you want to be in the city or suburbs? Is a pool a must-have or a would-be-nice-to-have item?
Plan time for fun
If the kids will be joining you on your house hunting adventure, make sure to plan some down time to have fun! Find out what some of the great places are in town, and set aside an afternoon to check them out. Visit the local park, grab lunch at a popular restaurant, or play a round of miniature golf. Give the kids a reason to get excited about their new home.
Connect with a trusted agent
Lastly, make the most of your home search by working with a trusted agent who is an expert in the local real estate market. Put out the word on social media to find referrals in the area, search online reviews and make some calls. Choose an agent with whom you have a good report, and have them begin scheduling appointments for you.
Compliments of Virtual Results
