Don't Be Afraid of Buying Your First Home

You're thinking, "Peggy Apple just bought her own home. How did she manage that one?"

All you have to do is mention you are thinking about purchasing a home. Everyone (your family, friends & peers) will be offering their assistance.

They will be telling you about how someone they know bought with no money invested. Another will offer information on why a fixed rate mortgage is better than an adjustable rate mortgage. Another will share tips on finding the best “deal.”  Then you go online and Google real estate. Now you are ready to give up and stay in your apartment or parent's home.

Take a deep breath! Everyone has their own opinions and will not stop offering you contradictory advice and opinions. Don’t let it stress you out! Anyone who has purchased their first home will tell you - you don’t need to know everything.

Remember KISS – keep it simple stupid – from your childhood?

There are three categories you will need to understand:

• The home-buying process
• The real estate marketplace where you live now
• Your own personal criteria for your next residence

Of these three categories, the most important is what YOU want, what YOU need, and what YOU can afford. From there your Realtor will help you narrow the marketplace to accommodate your needs and wants.

Some of you may want to jump in the Google pool and dive into all the details. Go ahead if that will make you feel better! I want to assure you this is not necessary.

I suggest you hire a Realtor who will recommend a lender for loan management and build your team to take the stress out of the process. Good luck!