House hunting has become a contact sport over the past year. The idealized vision of a leisurely Saturday morning reviewing open houses and plotting the day’s tours over lattes and croissants is a thing of the past. While popping into the local open house might be fun for the casual looker, if you are serious about finding your next home, this climate demands strategy.
Get Pre-Approved
First and most importantly, get pre-approved. Nothing is worse than finding the home of your dreams only to miss out because you couldn’t get pre-approved in time to submit an offer.
Get Representation
Second, seller’s have their own agent and you should too! A buyer’s agent (like myself) can guide you through the entire house hunting AND home buying process. During the house hunting period buyer’s agents help with property searches, off market listings and can get you access into property’s for private showings!
Know What You Need & Want
Third, know exactly what you need and want in a new home. Then share this vision in detail with your agent. Identify not only what you need in the property, but which communities would best fit your lifestyle. With lower inventory from which to choose, you also need to be clear about any compromises you are willing to make—if any.
Be Available to View Properties
Once you know what you’re looking for, the next step is to clear some time during the week for house hunting. That’s right, mid-week. Strategy is critical in a seller’s market. Serious buyers need to prioritize their search to position themselves ahead of their competition. Being available to see new listings as soon as possible is one way to ensure you don’t lose out on an opportunity to write an offer on the right home.
Now, who’s ready to house hunt?
