How to Buy a Home in Northern Colorado | A First-Timer’s Guide to How to Love the Process
If you’ve been thinking about buying a home in Northern Colorado but have no idea where to start, this 13-part series is for you! Over the next few weeks, we’ll be talking about how to buy a home in Northern Colorado. Each article will cover a different topic as I take you through the process. You’ll get great tips and easy-to-understand how-to’s that will help you find success purchasing a home in the current market.
This new series is a great companion to my previous “Perfect Home” series. Follow along each week for a deeper dive into the basics of buying a home.
How to Find the Best Buyer’s Agent
Finding an agent with the proper experience and your best interests in mind isn’t easy. However, it’s absolutely crucial. After all, Real Estate isn’t your day job! This article will help you find a knowledgeable agent you can trust to guide you through the process of buying a home in Northern Colorado.
Honest Questions to Ask Yourself When Buying a Home in Northern Colorado
In this article, you’ll get a breakdown of the honest questions no one else is asking you about your home search. On top of that, I’ll give you the exact questions you need to ask yourself BEFORE you start house hunting. This list goes way beyond how many bedrooms and bathrooms you want. You’ll learn that this often overlooked step will determine everything that happens during your home-buying experience.
Let’s Do the Math— A Mortgage You Can Afford
How do you figure out what monthly mortgage payments you can afford? This article will give you a formula for determining a price range that works for your budget. Follow my system to learn what you can afford to pay per month without drastically changing your lifestyle.
Where to Find Money for Your Down Payment
If you’re a first-time homebuyer, I want to ensure you aren’t putting every dollar you have into being a homeowner. Learn all the secret ways to get more bang for your (down-payment) buck. You’ll figure out what the “right” down payment amount is for you to achieve your goals. As a bonus, learn how to find cash if you don’t have enough funds in your personal savings.
Five Steps to Obtaining a Mortgage
Making sense of all your mortgage options can make anyone feel crazy. In this article, you’ll get a rundown of various mortgage options, the low down on private mortgage insurance (PMI), and why you may need it. Once you’ve been pre-approved for a loan, you’re ready to seriously start looking at homes.
The Fun “House Hunting” Guide
House hunting should be fun! For many buyers, however, it can be overwhelming and stressful. Find out how to shop strategically and productively. This article will provide you with tactics that will streamline your search. You’ll know what to look for and what to stay away from.
Make a Winning Offer Without Going Overboard
You’ve found a home you love and want to buy, but what’s next? Don’t worry; I’ve covered all the steps. This article will help you determine your offer price, give you some clever negotiation tactics, and even show you how to compete with multiple offers.
Under Contract: Locking in Your Mortgage and Getting a Home Appraisal
Did you know that you must wait until after you are under contract until you can lock in your interest rate? Here’s how to work with your lender to avoid any possible fluctuations. Read on for tips on keeping the most money in your pocket as you close the deal!
How to Navigate a Home Inspection
You don’t want any surprises after you move in. Both old and new homes should be inspected. Here’s the breakdown of what to expect during your home inspection, the most critical parts of an examination, and what to do if any red flags arise.
The Importance of Reviewing Condo Documents
Purchasing a condo unit is like buying into a business— you need to know how financially sound the entire condo community is before you finalize your contract. The final review of condo documents happens after you’re under contract. Seems backward, but that’s how the process works. Usually, you’ll only have a few days to read lengthy documents. This guide will help prepare you.
Almost There— Pre-Closing Details for Buyers
You’re almost there! Before you sign the final papers, you have a few more details to handle. Here’s a breakdown of what’s next on your list. This article will help you finalize details such as purchasing hazard insurance, obtaining a home warranty, and how to transfer utilities to your new home. You’ll be prepared to ensure a smooth transition into becoming the owner of this home.
How to Make Your Settlement a Success
You’ve finally made it, but there are still a few items to cross off your to-do list. This handy list will ensure you’re adequately prepared and ready for the exciting day you finally have the keys in your hand.
Bonus Article: Maintaining Your New Home
From the moment you walk through your front door as a new homeowner, your life changes. You’re responsible for everything from paying the electric bill to keeping home and repair documents organized. You’re also in charge of home maintenance. Understanding your home systems (water heater, furnace, etc.) is up to you! Regular maintenance and upkeep throughout the year will keep your home in shape and prevent costly repairs.
I hope you enjoy this weekly series and learn a lot! Each buyer has unique circumstances to contend with. We can put together a plan for how to make your first home a reality. Be sure to get in touch as soon as you decide you want to start looking for a home! I’m here to help you each step of the way.
