Cheers to lower mortgage rates! If you're gearing up to embark on the home buying journey this year, we suggest taking the next few weeks to gear up – focus on your finances, nail down your goals, and pinpoint your preferences. Preparation is key so that when the perfect home comes your way, you're ready to pounce. And rest assured, Sage Haus has your back every step of the way.

#1. Choose Your Dream Team

The first step? Assemble your dream team of professionals to ensure a seamless and successful home-buying experience. Beyond just guiding your home search, we serve as hands-on advisors, helping you navigate the intricacies of different listings, offering expert negotiations, and connecting you to a vast network of service providers – from lenders to home inspectors, real estate attorneys, contractors, and movers. We've got you covered from contract to closing and beyond.

#2. Decode Your Finances

With your real estate dream team in place, the next step is a deep dive into your finances. Kickstart the process with a loan application and mortgage pre-approval, allowing your mortgage lender to outline how much home you can afford based on various factors.

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all in home loans. Different mortgages cater to different timelines, budgets, and risk tolerances. Ask questions, voice concerns, and rely on your team’s expertise to find the perfect loan for you. Your lender may even uncover unique loan programs you haven't considered, catering to specific groups like military veterans, doctors, educators, public servants, or first-time buyers.

#3. Build a Realistic Budget

Even if your down payment is secure, thinking beyond day one is crucial. Especially if you’re renting, it’s essential to understand the real costs of owning a home – everything from moving to furnishing your new home to care and upkeep to utilities.

Your agent can help build a realistic budget, factoring in everything from moving costs to furnishing your new space and ongoing care and upkeep. Lean on their experience and insights to ensure you’re planning correctly.

And if you need more time to save up for your down payment, check out these simple strategies for accelerating your savings in the New Year..

#4. Research Your Top Neighborhoods

Now, the fun begins! Whether you're touring open houses or exploring towns on your wishlist, work closely with your agent to assess factors beyond the house itself. We always ask our clients, “Who do you want to be & what kind of life do you want to live?” Consider local amenities, commute times, schools, and access to your favorite spots. After all, you can renovate a house, but you can't renovate a neighborhood. Find one you love, and your home search will fall into place.

Buying a home is a journey that requires careful planning & preparation. Reach out to schedule a call with one of our Sage Haus Brokers to help you find your dream home in 2024!