Thinking of buying your first home or one that better suits you and your family? Here are three important people who can help guide you through the most significant investment most people will ever make.

1. A mortgage professional. Nearly nine of 10 buyers finance their home purchases. Knowing how much home you can afford is a crucial first step before you start hunting for the perfect home. A mortgage professional can provide you with this information before you begin your search. You’ll also find out how much cash you’ll need at closing. Your down payment depends on the type of mortgage you are able to get, and your loan officer can help guide you through all of your options. Some loan programs have a down payment requirement as low as zero to 3%. How to choose the right loan officer? Start by asking your friends and family for recommendations.
2. A real estate agent. Seeking the advice of a real estate professional can be a great way to go when buying a home. An agent can help you navigate the home buying process and assist with financing, inspections and negotiating. Having someone on your side to guide you through the home buying process is important, even if this isn’t your first home purchase.
3. A qualified home inspector. A pre-purchase home inspection is a vital part of the home buying process. No matter the circumstances, it’s risky to skip it. Make your offer contingent upon one. Without a home inspection, you’re depending only on the home seller to let you know about any defects or issues. They may not even realize some of their home’s issues. No one wants to find out that a roof needs to be replaced or a furnace is faulty after they sign on the dotted line. A home inspection is not going to find every single thing that may need to be replaced or repaired on a home, but it will give you a better idea of whether you may face costly home repair bills down the line.

Have questions about what we look for when we conduct a pre-purchase home inspection? Call us at (410) 886-7000, and we can answer any questions you may have. Happy house hunting!