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First Time Home Buyers

If you are a first time home buyer and don't know where to start, take a deep breathe.  Buying your first home can be a very rewarding experience.   The following steps can have you on your way to home ownership with a few phone calls and/or emails.  During my many years of real estate, these are the steps I advise for some of my favorite clients!

  1. Contact a lender for a pre-qualification.  There are loan programs designed specifically for you. If you are in a rural area, I suggest working with a local lender versus an online giant. Local lenders are familiar with the area and can possibly offer better loan options. Start with your bank or contact a local real estate agent for suggestions. The lender will gather your information and tell you a price range for a home you can afford.   
  2. Go Shopping!  This is the fun part!  Contact a real estate agent and tell them your wants and needs. Find ONE agent you like and stick with them. All agents in an MLS system can show all the properties available and help you find your perfect home. The agent can also advise you on homes that will work for your type of financing. Don't plan on buying a repo or fixer upper with your loan. Most government loans require the home to be move in ready with no major repairs. 
  3. Negotiate a contract.  When you have found the home your agent will guide you through the rest of the process.   Be sure to ask your agent about the seller possibly paying some or all of your closing costs. This can save some out of pocket costs at closing. 
And that is it!  Please note there are several aspects to the home buying process but this will get you started and on your way to home ownership.

#firsttimehomebuyer #cassvillerealestate #shellknobrealestate

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