If you are in the process of looking for a new home, you have probably realized that there are lots of options available. It can be very difficult to decide which home is right for you, but there are several important tips you should keep in mind. They include:
1. Make A List Of Your Wants And Needs
First, make a list of what you need to have and what you want to have. It is very difficult to find the perfect home, but if you have a list that allows you to prioritize what is most important, the process will get easier.
2. Consider Home Improvements
Next, take a look at some of the most important home improvements that homeowners have done. Think about what matters to your lifestyle. Then, look for those home improvements during your housing search.
3. Check Out The Neighbors
Pay close attention to the neighbors. You will have to live next door to them, so you want to get along with them. Do you want neighbors who keep themselves? Or, do you want neighbors who are outgoing?
4. Consider The Kids
Do you see a lot of kids playing in the street? If you have children, you might want to make it easier for them to make friends. Having other kids in the neighborhood is important.
5. Think About The Commute
What is your drive to work like in the morning? How much traffic are you willing to deal with? Pay attention to how much time you will have to spend in the car.
6. Consider The Schools
What is the school system like? Even if you don’t have kids, a quality school system can make a significant difference in the value of your home.
7. Look At The Crime Numbers
How much crime is in the area? Much of this information is public, so take a look at the municipal police department website to see what the prime numbers are like.
8. Consider Your Future
What is your future going to be like? Do you think the home will still be right for you in a few years? Try to find a home that you will stay in for a while.
9. Look At The Days On Market
Are there a lot of homes in the area selling quickly? If the homes sell fast, it is a sign of a desirable neighborhood.
10. Don’t Forget The Amenities
What are some of the changes taking place in the local community? Are there new shops and restaurants opening up? If so, you have probably found the right home.
When you take out a home loan, you might have the option to purchase mortgage points. Essentially, this is money that you pay to the lender upfront in exchange for getting a lower interest rate over the life of the loan. If you got a great deal on the house, you might have some extra cash on hand. Should you use that money to buy down the interest rate? This is a math problem that you need to calculate for yourself.
Last week’s economic reporting included readings on home price growth, federal data on public and private sector job growth, the national unemployment rate, and data on consumer sentiment. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and jobless claims were also released.