Thanks for checking out one of my open house! As promised, here are my top 5 tips to make sure you’re getting the best deal on your new home.

Keep score

The better your credit score, the better your mortgage terms will be. A good credit score can save you tens of thousands of dollars over the life of your loan.

Be flexible in your home search

Homebuyers who distinguish between wants and needs make the most sensible decisions. Your budget may require you to buy a townhouse rather than a single family, or buy a fixer-upper in order to stay in your preferred neighborhood.

The lifespan of things

In addition to identifying cosmetic and structural flaws before you buy, know what to expect from the home’s components. How long until you need to replace the roof, appliances, furnace or carpet? Researching the expected life on large ticket items can help with negotiations and help you plan for the future.

Keep your cool

Don’t get overly excited in your search, especially in markets where homes are selling quickly. A bit of self-restraint helps prevent you from overspending. Start early and be patient!

Don’t go at it alone

A good agent can help you make the most competitive offer, and if it doesn’t get accepted, help you find another great option.

Please let me know if I can help in any way with your home search!