Buying Pasadena real estate?
No doubt you’ve got dreams for the type of home you want. But let’s consider what you should do before shopping for and signing a contract to buy Pasadena real estate.
Factors to consider when buying Pasadena real estate
What can you afford? Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to two to three times your household gross income. But you’ll also want to visit a lender to get pre-qualified for a loan amount to have a clearer picture. You’ll likely need a down payment, as well as money for closing costs, which can range from 2 to 7 percent of the home price.
Figure out your priorities. Make a list of must-haves and prioritize the importance of the home’s features. Be prepared to compromise; most homes will not have everything you want.
Where to live.: Compile a list of three or four neighborhood to review. Consider schools, nearby amenities such as hiking trails or golf courses, and safety. Home values also will vary by neighborhood. Visit my neighborhood pages on the website -- such as the one for Orange Heights -- to learn more about areas of Pasadena.
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Budget for the costs of ownership: Factor in estimated mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, maintenance and utilities (and home association fees, if applicable).
Contact a real estate agent: Find an experienced agent to help ensure that you find what you want out of a Pasadena real estate purchase while staying within your budget.
Find out what's happening in Pasadenafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Chris Reisbeck writes blogs about Pasadena real estate. Read more of his articles on Classic Pasadena Homes.
