What is the first thing you should do when you want to buy a house? If you’re a first-time home buyer, you’re likely eager to get out, find your favorite neighborhoods, and start house hunting. However, there are several steps you’ll need to take before you look at homes.

In this post, our Ocala, Florida, realtors at Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty - Coldwell Real Estate Services will share the first thing you should do when you want to buy a house. We’ll also explore some next steps to take as you continue your journey.

Key Takeaways:

• When you want to buy a house, the first thing you should do is assess your finances and prepare a budget.
• Get a copy of your credit report and evaluate your score. Keep in mind that higher credit scores can help you qualify for better interest rates and loan terms. 
• After you review your finances and get mortgage pre-approval, reach out to a professional realtor. Then, start researching real estate markets in your area, if you haven’t already. 

What is the First Thing You Should Do When You Want to Buy a House?

When you want to buy a house, the first thing you should do is assess your finances and prepare a budget. You should start by:

• Evaluating Your Income: Understand the bigger picture of your finances by reviewing your income, expenses, debts, and savings. Understand how much money you have coming in each month vs. how much you’re spending. Then, calculate how much you can comfortably afford to spend on buying a home as well as monthly home ownership expenses. 
• Checking Your Credit Score: When you’re buying a home, it’s especially important to understand your credit score. Get a copy of your credit report and evaluate your score. Keep in mind that higher credit scores can help you qualify for better interest rates and loan terms. If necessary, take steps to improve your score before applying for a mortgage.
• Saving for Home-Buying Costs: If you haven’t already, start setting aside money for your down payment and monthly mortgage payments. In addition, you’ll need to save for other costs like closing costs, property taxes, homeowners insurance, private mortgage insurance, and ongoing maintenance costs. 
• Getting Mortgage Pre-Approval: Once your finances are in order and you’ve saved up enough money, reach out to a lender to get pre-approved for a mortgage. Pre-approval should come before you start looking at homes because it gives you a more defined budget to guide your search. It also helps you by showing sellers you have serious intentions.

How Much House Can You Afford?

What Should You Do Next to Buy a House?

After you review your finances and get mortgage pre-approval, reach out to a professional realtor. Look for an experienced agent who has a track record of success when it comes to helping home buyers.

Then, start researching real estate markets in your area, if you haven’t already. Decide which neighborhoods you’re interested in and which ones match your ideal lifestyle and budget. Narrow down your options and start looking for listings.

As you start finding properties you’re interested in, you can begin attending open houses and scheduling private viewings. Your realtor will streamline your search and help you explore properties within your budget and desired location. 

Work with Scott Coldwell to Buy a House in Ocala Today

Working with an expert realtor can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the process of buying a house. At Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty - Coldwell Real Estate Services, Scott Coldwell and our team have worked with thousands of home buyers in Ocala and North Central Florida.

We know exactly what to do to guide our clients through closing and into their dream homes.  Our experience is only one reason we’re ranked as the top realtor in Ocala. In addition, we offer unique buyer guarantees that make the buying process risk-free, like our Buy it Back Guarantee.

To learn more about working with Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty - Coldwell Real Estate Services to buy a house in Ocala or the surrounding areas, call 352-290-3512, or fill out the form on this page.

To Discuss Your Home Sale or Purchase, Call or Text Today and Start Packing!