Starting Your Home Search? Do These Things First

Yesterday, I had a couple of great questions from people who are just beginning their home-buying journey.

One person asked, "Everything I like is over my budget. Where do I even start?"

Another asked, "I can't even get a Realtor to call me back to show me a house. And once I do find one, how do I pay them?"

These are common questions, especially for first-time buyers, so I thought I'd share a quick answer.

The first step isn't looking at houses—it's talking to your bank or lender. Before you start scrolling through listings or scheduling showings, find out what you can comfortably afford and get pre-approved. Knowing your budget will save you time, reduce frustration, and help you focus on homes that are actually within reach.

Next, start reaching out to a few Realtors. Don't be afraid to interview them. Ask questions and pay attention to how they respond. A good Realtor should take the time to answer your questions thoroughly and make sure you understand the process.

Once you've chosen a Realtor to work with, ask them to set up a personalized online home search for you. You'll receive listings that match your budget and the features you're looking for, and you'll be notified as soon as new homes hit the market. It's a great way to stay focused on homes you can afford without spending hours searching online yourself.

If you're looking for someone to represent your interests as a buyer, ask them a simple question: "What do you do for me as my buyer's agent?" Their answer will tell you a lot about how they work and whether they're the right fit for you.

If you decide to work together, you'll typically sign a Buyer's Agency Agreement. This agreement explains the services your agent will provide, who they represent, and how they're compensated.

One thing many buyers don't realize is that an agent's compensation is negotiable. In my business, I charge a % of the sales price as a buyer's agent fee. Depending on the terms of the transaction, that fee can be paid by either the buyer or the seller.

Buying a home can feel overwhelming at first, but having the right lender and the right Realtor on your side makes the process much smoother. Getting pre-approved, working with an agent you trust, and setting up a customized online home search are three of the best ways to set yourself up for success before you even step inside your first home.

If you have questions about buying a home or would like to get started with a personalized home search, I'd be happy to help.