Buying a home is one of the largest purchases most of us will make. The real estate market in Big Bear has changed dramatically over the past 10 years. Prices have fluctuated significantly, as have the number of homes for sale, and getting a loan ain’t what it used to be.
Here are five tips to simplify the process of buying real estate in Big Bear today –
1. Lenders and budget.
Research lenders first and use their advice in determining your budget. Get pre-qualified. Don’t assume that because your credit is good you will get the loan you want. This is not a surprise you want to encounter half-way through a real estate transaction.
It used to be that all that was required to get a loan was a pulse! Now, you have to be supremely qualified in order to get a loan. It makes sense to clear this hurdle first before getting your hopes up.
2. Search properties online.
Search our database, or any other real estate website that has a direct MLS feed, for Big Bear properties for sale. A site with an MLS feed gives you the most accurate and up-to-date listings. While other sites like Zillow & Trulia have some great market data, their listings are notoriously inaccurate.
Make a list of must-have features and be sure to sign-up for email alerts that match your desired criteria. This way, you will be updated daily on new listings that match your needs. The early bird gets the worm in today’s market!
Be sure to match your expectations to your budget. And remember, there are additional expenses in the first year associated with repairs and decorations.
Check the neighborhoods and be aware of the different services offered. Do you need to be close to lake, ski slopes and shopping? Then Big Bear Lake East or Fox Farm may be your best location. Are you looking to get away from it all? We suggest Fawnskin, upper Moonridge, Erwin Lake or Baldwin Lake. Location may also affect your home’s resale value, so always keep that in mind.
3. Select a real estate agent to help you.
Selecting the right agent is crucial as a good agent will save you time, money, and hassle. We suggest to look for a full time agent that is on top of the local market conditions. We highly recommend using a local real estate expert! Make sure they have sold properties and worked as a Realtor for a while. Check with friends for referrals. Visiting open houses is a great way to meet and interview agents. Once you’ve found an agent you’re interested in, check out their reviews on websites like Zillow and Yelp.
4. Visit homes.
Go through your list of possible homes and visit them in person. Trust us, they are normally much different than online. Give the agent feedback on what you like and don’t like as this will help them to match your needs with the best options on the market.
Take along a notepad and be sure to get flyers on each home. You will forget a lot of the homes you see so having some good notes on each will help you remember later.
5. Patience & communication.
Lots of things come up. Real Estate transactions require patience and communication to get through the deal.
Don’t be impulsive. Once you have found a home you’re interested in, continue to look at a few more homes. Doing your homework will help you confirm that you’re making the right decision, no need for “buyer’s remorse”!
Many buyers fall in love with a property that is a little beyond their budget. We advise you not to “stretch” to get into the most expensive property you can afford. Save that money for unexpected difficulties. Make your home an affordable asset, not a liability.
More Home Buying Tips;
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First-Time Home Buyers Tips For Getting a Mortgage | Courtland … – First-Time Home Buyers Tips For Getting a Mortgage.
- Handy First Time Home Buyers Tips – Ask Kate for handy first time home buyer’s tips: Ania asks, Should I get preapproval for a mortgage before I start looking for FHA or Fannie Mae HomePath.
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Mortgage Tips for First Time Home Buyers | Maryland Real Estate – Related Posts. What is a Mortgage? July 15, 2012 · Maryland First Time Home Buyers: Tips For Choosing a Real Estate Agent · June 8, 2012 · Maryland First Time Home Buyers: Selecting Homeowner’s Insurance …
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