There is nothing more exciting than purchasing your first home, especially in the gorgeous community of Cadence in Nevada. Your first home is a symbol of stability, growth, and responsibility that many people work hard to achieve. Buying a home isn’t always easy, and it can be a lot of work if you’re not prepared. Luckily we have you covered with some of our best tips for people looking to buy their first home.
Start Saving Early
Saving up money can be really difficult nowadays, so it’s best to get started as soon as possible if you’re considering buying a home. You will need to save up money for:
- the down payment
- closing costs
- moving expenses
Traditionally a down payment was 20 percent of the loan you take out for your mortgage. Nowadays, lenders are far more flexible. If you have good credit you may be able to find a conventional loan that requires just a three percent down payment. A down payment calculator can help you set your goals. You’ll also want to work on a budget and may want to consider setting up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings to help.
Closing costs are fees and expenses that finalize your mortgage payment. They can range from two to five percent of your loan amount. You also may be able to ask the seller to assist in paying them as well.
You will also need to have some money set aside to help you move in. If you’re thinking of upgrading your new house or need to make some immediate home repairs, this extra cash is crucial.
This is also the perfect time to assess your monthly spending and try to address any bad money habits you have. Owning a home is a big financial responsibility and you should be ready for anything that comes your way.
Check on Your Credit
Your credit score is the determining factor in qualifying for a mortgage and also affects the interest rates lenders offer to you.
- Request free copies of your credit reports from Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion
- Look for any errors and dispute them
- Keep an eye on your credit score
- Keep your credit card balances low
- Pay your bills on time
- Keep all your credit lines open– closing one could lower your score
Get Preapproved for Your Mortgage
You should consider getting a mortgage preapproval letter from a lender. It’s one of the best ways to show sellers and real estate agents that you’re a serious buyer– which can give you a leg up on the competition.
To get preapproved for a loan you should apply to a lender. They will be able to pull your credit score and review the documents necessary to verify your income and assets, as well as your debt.
Set a Budget and Stick to It
It can be easy to get caught up in the excitement of house hunting. And occasionally you may come across a lender who will try to offer you a loan that is more than what you’re comfortable with. You also may feel pressure to bid against another buyer and spend more than you were expecting. The best way to avoid these pressures is to look at properties that are below your price limit. This gives you some room to bid and be more competitive while shopping. You’re also going to want to create a budget for yourself.
Find a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent
The home buying process can get a bit overwhelming, which is why a knowledgeable real estate will be your best friend while you’re busy house hunting. The agent can scour the market for you, searching for the best options that meet your needs while staying within your budget. They are also a wealth of knowledge and can walk you through the negotiation and closing processes. As a first time home buyer, you need an agent who is experienced and happy to answer all your questions.
Choose Cadence, NV
You’ll love everything this master-planned community has to offer. The amenities, including our parks, pond, trails, and amphitheater, are perfect for the first-time homebuyer. We’re just a short drive from downtown Las Vegas and close to lots of shop and restaurant options. There’s always something new to do here. It’s also the perfect place if you have a family. Cadence is home to three top-notch schools that can teach children from grades K-12. Find out why so many people have chosen to find their home in Cadence.
