5 Features First-Time Home Buyers Should Look For

5 FEATURES FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS

Shopping for your first home is exciting. But it is easy to become overwhelmed by all the details that go into finding the perfect one.

While you may have a few ideas for your dream home, it is also important to consider the critical factors that ensure your long-lasting happiness with your new residence.

As you prepare to begin the home buying process, look for these 5 essential features.

They will help you know when you have found a house that fits your financial and lifestyle needs.

A PRIME LOCATION

Location is everything when it comes to buying property. In addition to the size of your family, several other options need to be considered.

Your career is one. The importance of being close to: • • • • • • •

Amenities Schools Shopping Restaurants Parks Walking trails And other types of recreation

Begin by searching for houses in your desired neighborhood that offer you a short commute to work or school.

Look at the overall community when viewing a prospective new home.

Keep in mind that your home’s value can fluctuate according to the other nearby properties.

Be sure to look for signs of a stable neighborhood such as well-maintained houses and lawns.

AN AFFORDABLE PRICE

Every first-time home buyer should have a budget in place.

Sit down and figure out how much of a down payment and mortgage you can realistically afford.

As you do, make sure to look at all loan options that are available to help you get the best house for your money.

For instance, a fixed-rate VA loan may require a smaller down payment.

This gives you the option of putting more of your budget toward making any necessary improvements to make your new home more comfortable for living.

AN AFFORDABLE PRICE

Many first-time home buyers purchase homes that are pre-owned.

While these houses tend to come with a more affordable asking price, you also want to avoid falling into the trap of having to pay for major repairs right away.

During your tour of a house, check for signs that show the house has been kept up over the years.

For instance, a house with a new roof will be less likely to have sustained water damage.

And fresh filters in the HVAC system show that the current owners have paid attention to basic home maintenance tasks that prevent serious problems from developing.

AN EMPHASIS ON ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Older homes sometimes require a few updates to make sure they fit the growing need for energy efficiency.

It is common to have to do a few things yourself such as buying new appliances or moving in your old ones.

Having a few basic features in place, such as energy-efficient windows and modern plumbing fixtures, is always the best.

If the home is older than ten years, then you will also want to check for updated electrical wiring that includes enough outlets to fit your needs.

A FLEXIBLE LAYOUT

The average person should expect to spend at least five to ten years in their first house.

During this time, many things can happen.

Spend a few minutes thinking about your long-term plans to make sure that your preferred house can be adapted to fit potential changes.

For instance, a game room could become a nursery or home office if the need arises.

Alternatively, a basement or garage could be converted into a living space for an elderly relative.

Today’s housing market offers many options for first-time home buyers that allow you to make your dreams of owning a house a reality.

By starting out with the right mindset, you can look forward to moving into a house that fits your budget while giving you the amenities that enhance your lifestyle.

Mortgage Originator JimmyVercellino, specializing in VA loans, helps veterans use their VA loan benefit to their greatest advantage.

Be a proud homeowner today.

For more details call 480-351-5904 or visit the site www.valoansforvets.com

VA Loans for Vets 7600 E. Doubletree Ranch Road #200 Scottsdale, AZ 85258 Phone: (480) 351-5904 Email: jimmyv@fcbmtg.com