• Pre-Qualification: Meet with a mortgage broker and find out how much you can afford to pay for a home.

• Pre-Approval: While knowing how much you can afford is the first step, pre-approval offers you a more accurate snapshot into how much you can afford. With pre-approval, the buyer applies for a mortgage and receives a written commitment from a lender. This way, assuming the home you're interested in is at or under the amount you're pre-qualified for, the seller knows immediately that you are a serious buyer for that property. 

• List of Needs & Wants: Make two lists. The first should include items you must have (i.e. - the number of bedrooms you need for the size of your family, a one-story house if accessibility is a factor, etc.). The second list is your wishes - things you would like to have (accessibility to a pool, den, etc.) that are unnecessary. Realistically for first time buyers, you probably will not get everything on your wish list, but it will keep you on track for what you are looking for. 

• Representation by a Real Estate Professional: As a buyer, your real estate agent is hired to represent your best interests, not the sellers. In British Columbia, dual-agency is only allowed in specific scenarios such as remote service areas. Consider seeking your real estate professional as early as possible during your home search.

• Focus & Organization: In a convenient location, keep the following items handy that will assist you in maximizing your home search efforts. Items may include:

  • One or more detailed maps with your areas of interest highlighted

  • A list or file of the properties your agent has shown you

  • Paper and pen for taking notes as you search

  • A camera to snap pictures of homes you have toured to help you remember your favourites and features you liked.

• Visualize the house empty & with your decor: Are the rooms laid out to fit your needs? Is there enough light?

• Be Objective: Think with your heart when you find a home instead of thinking with your head. Does this home meet your needs? Many houses may be on the market, so don't make a hurried decision you may regret later.

• Be Thorough: A few extra dollars well spent now may save you big expenses in the long rung. Don't forget essentials such as:

  • Has a professional inspector inspected the property?

  • Does your mortgage lender have all required documents?

All of the above may seem overwhelming. That is why having a professional represent you and keep track of all the details for you is highly recommended. Please contact us directly to discuss any of these matters in further detail.