Ahhh, the dream of Homeownership! It's part of the American experience. For many people, purchasing their first home is the realization of a long sought after goal.

As with any worthy goal, the pursuit of homeownership can also bring anxiety and nervousness. Fear of the unknown is one of the biggest issues you are likely to face as a First-Time Home Buyer. This is totally understandable given the fact that you are quite possibly making one of the largest purchases of your life!

So, how do you best deal with the anxiety associated with this first-time purchase? Good information, the right people on your team, and a clear process are the keys to managing the inherent anxiety

Take a look at the information and tools below designed to help you prepare for the home buying process. Also, don't forget to check out our video series for First-Time Home Buyers!

It may seem odd, but the best place to start for First-Time Home Buyers is often to take a step back and consider the pros and cons of owning your own home. Take a look at the list of the top pros and cons we see buyers contemplating often. Discuss these issues with family and friends who you feel will be helpful to you.
Check out our top list of Pros and Cons of buying your first house.

Once I know I'd like to buy, where do I start?

Start by meeting first with your lender. Determining what you qualify for lays the foundation for the rest of the home buying process. Meeting with a lender early will allow your lender to help you with any credit issues that may slow you down. Even if you are certain you will qualify, it is still important to meet with a lender to determine how much you will qualify for. The last thing you want to do is get your heart set on a house you are unable to afford.
Check out our resources available to help you find and work with a good lender.

Who do I need to have on my team?

In addition to a competent Realtor and an informed lender, you will also need a number of other people available to help you through the buying process. In our opinion, an inspector is a must when buying a home. An accountant may also be needed particularly if you are hoping to claim the $8000 tax credit. In addition you will need to identify a quality title company to work with. An insurance agent will be required by your lender. And finally, your lender will also require an appraisal by one of their approved appraisers.
For more details on how to select a quality team, click here.

Deciding what you need vs. what you want in a home.

Once you start looking at houses, it can be easy to forget what is really important to you in a home. That is why we feel it is important to establish what you Need in a home vs. what you Want prior to viewing your first house.
Use our tools to help you determine your needs vs. wants.

Now, the exciting part...viewing homes of interest!

After we have had a chance to sit with you to get a good feel for what you need in a house, we will pull a list of prospective homes for your review. Tammy and Brian will make arrangements for viewing times and we can start to look at homes! This part of the process is really fun! Try to relax and enjoy this part of buying a home.
Get details on our proven search process which is the fastest way to finding the ideal home!

Ready to make an offer!

The Offer Process is where the stress kicks into overdrive for many First-Time Home Buyers. Knowing how much to offer, navigating the Purchase and Sale Agreement, handling Counter-Offers, and committing to buy all add to the intensity. Working with a good Realtor that tailors this process to you is extremely important.
Review our process for making offers and learn what to expect along the way.