About 90% of homebuyers start their home search online, according to the NAR. And if you’re a part of this number, then you have some serious competition! Naturally, you don’t want to miss out on the perfect property or waste time on homes that aren’t quite right for you. That’s why you’ll need to have a strategy in place while browsing to find your dream home.
Here are five tips to keep in mind:
1) A lot of details are left out in online listings.
Pictures can only tell you so much, and they may not show important details like the layout, condition of appliances, or neighborhood noise levels. Also, the description of the property is commercial and meant to entice you. So, make sure you schedule a visit to see the property in person before committing, and be prepared to ask important questions. You should also request a full disclosure from the seller or Realtor.
2) Resist the temptation to speed up the process.
Once you’ve been pre-approved for a mortgage and have found a home you like online, it can be tempting to rush through the rest of the process. However, you want to take your time in completing all the necessary inspections and assessments. Buying a home is not like buying a pair of shoes – you can’t just return it if there are unforeseen issues!
3) Prioritize your needs and wants.
To make the homebuying experience smoother, create a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves in a home and prioritize them. With this list in hand, you can easily filter out houses that won’t work for you instead of wasting valuable time on unsuitable properties. Keep in mind that your needs may change over time, so try to find a balance between short-term and long-term requirements.
4). Photography oversells but can also undersell a property.
Remember that good photography can make a home look better than it actually is. But not all sellers have the skills and or budget to stage and photograph their listings professionally. Even real estate agents (about 15%) still don’t hire professional photographers and copywriters to market homes. So, don’t overlook homes with bad photography, as they may still have great potential.
5) Research the neighborhood you’re interested in.
You won’t know if a neighborhood rears animals, has gun activity, or smells bad through an online listing. That’s why you must research the neighborhood and visit in person. Read online reviews and check out crime statistics to ensure the neighborhood is a good fit for you. Also, drive by or visit during different times of day to get a feel for the area and notice any potential problems like noise from nearby businesses or construction sites.
Looking for a Home in Rancho Cucamonga?
Remember, when it comes to finding the right home, it’s important to take your time and do your research. The most important bit about buying a home is hiring a qualified and trustworthy real estate agent to guide you through the process. If you’re in Rancho Cucamonga, reach out to Camden Mckay Realty today at (909) 841-0243 today! We’ll help you navigate the market and find the perfect fit for you and your family.
