Things to Look for When Buying a House

By CityWorth Mortgage

Purchasing a home isn't as difficult as it sounds. In fact, it can be quite a fun experience. Whether or not you have excellent credit or you have no money for a down payment, you still should able to buy the house of your dreams. Now, finding that house can be the biggest challenge to your purchase. Knowing what you want is the first step in your search. Once you have determined exactly what type of house you want, finding it may prove difficult, especially if you are not willing to settle for less. Of course, you should not settle for anything less than what you desire. After all, purchasing a house is an important decision and the house you choose should meet all of your requirements. However, there are things you should look for when searching for that perfect house.

 Make a list of must haves for your new home. How many bedrooms do you need? How many bathrooms? Does style matter? Do you want a grand old Victorian or are you more at home in a condo? Are you willing to make renovations? Check out CityWorth's remodeler loan program that will allow you to purchase a home and borrower additional money to do home improvements all in one loan. You may want to keep this loan program in mind when looking at homes that need a updating but otherwise meet your requirements.

Knowing exactly what you want is half the battle. Location is the other half. Location can be just as important as the house itself. Know where you want to live as well as what kind of house you want to live in. If you are purchasing a house, you are planning on living in that house for quite some time. If you're not comfortable with the location, you won't be comfortable with your house. Are you a city dweller or do you long for wide open spaces and country air? Do you want a large yard or acres of land? Do you need to be close to work or school? Take all of these factors into consideration before deciding on your location. Once you have decided on your desired location, then you can begin searching for a home within that location.

Consider getting pre-approved for your mortgage before you start looking for your new home. CityWorth Mortgage, you can get your loan completely underwritten before you start your search for a new home. If you're in a bidding war with other buyers, your offer will stand out to the seller. Unlike a preapproval offer from a different buyer (which has little value to the seller), your exclusive Mortgage Loan First Approval will assure that the seller can expect that your offer will go through quickly and without surprises just like a cash offer!

Once you start looking at houses, you need to know what to look for. You may find your dream house, but make sure the home is structurally sound. Be certain that the wiring and plumbing are in good working condition. Take a look at the roof and make sure that it is not in need of repair. Examine the house carefully for water damage or other signs of issues that may require major renovations. Other problems could include a cracked foundation or a basement that holds water when it rains. Check doors and make sure the windows are sound and relatively new. Be sure to check the condition of the furnace and hot water tank. Check the condition of toilets and sinks. Look for signs of mold, as well as bug infestation. Check other structures such as the garage.

Don't buy the first house that catches your eye. Take your time and check things out thoroughly. Look at several houses before you make a decision. Take notes on each place that interests you and compare the advantages and disadvantages. Buying a house is a big decision. You want to make sure you have found a home that will meet the needs of your family without costing you more time and money that you are willing or able to invest. Buying a home should be a positive experience, enjoy it.


* Specific loan program availability and requirements may vary. Please get in touch with your mortgage advisor for more information.