Take it from me: Buying a Southern Maryland home is a big deal. It’s exciting and overwhelming and scary and exhilarating – all at the same time. You can make the process a lot easier of you avoid these four things that buyers should never do.
Going it alone: A home is the likely the largest investment you’ll ever make. Do you want to navigate that process alone? An experienced, reputable real estate agent (hmmm … do we know anyone like that??) can walk you through the process, explain things to you, and advocate for you. It’s my job to make it easy for you.
Talk to one bank: You wouldn’t buy the first house you look at, right? Don’t do the same with your mortgage. Get quotes from several mortgage lenders – three is a good rule – so that you have options and can find the best loan program for you.
Wait for that dream home: I hate to burst your bubble, but there is no perfect “dream home.” There are “almost dream homes” and “homes with dream home potential,” but you will never find a Southern Maryland home that checks all of the boxes on your wish list. My advice? Make a list of your “must haves” and your “nice to haves” – and keep an open mind. With a little work and creativity, an “almost perfect” home can become perfect.
Buy a new car right before closing: Please, please – don’t make any major financial changes before closing. Don’t change jobs, buy a new car, or take out a new credit card. Don’t apply for loans or buy appliances on store credit. Taking on new debt could affect your credit score – and not always in a good way. Credit score changes and income changes could change the mortgage for which you qualify. You risk getting a higher interest rate from your lender or not getting the loan at all.
Realtor.com lists three more don’ts that you should definitely avoid. The “do” that should be on your list? Giving me a call! I can help you take the leap into home ownership.
