3 Things Your Real Estate Agent Needs To Know During House Hunting
The house hunting journey can be an exciting one, filled with ideas about where you want to live, where you see your future going, and how you see your children growing up. Although many people have a long list of things in mind as they embark on a house hunting adventure, they don't always share important information with their real estate agent. Here are three things your realtor needs to know during house hunting and why.
1. Locations of Your Nixed Neighborhoods While many people have ideas about where they want to live, all too often, people forget to inform their realtor about the areas they would rather not call home. To avoid being faced with open houses in areas where you wouldn't dream of living, talk with your agent at length about where you want to live and where you don't.
Try to rule out places you and your family don't feel comfortable, parts of town where the commute would be too long, and areas that have a high crime rate. Also, think about things like the community culture, the walking score, and nearby restaurants and shops. Never put an offer down on a house that is situated in a poor neighborhood.
2. Your Must-Have Home Features From stone countertops to plush carpeting, everyone has things they want in a home, so write yours down. Talk with your agent about what you aren't willing to budge on, such as that third-car garage or a large backyard where your children can play.
By creating a list for your real estate agent, they can eliminate listings that don't contain your must-have items, while also zeroing in on places that offer exactly what you are looking for.
3. Your Budget Range While you may have an idea of what you would like to spend on a home, try to be flexible when you shop for a house. Make sure that your agent understands what you want to spend, but that they understand what you are willing to pay for the right place. By taking the time to establish a set budget and a flexible budget, you can streamline negotiations later.
When you are ready to look for the perfect house, turn to a real estate agent in your area with experience buying and selling properties in the spots where you are interested in purchasing a home. Try to stay open minded about anything that isn't on your list, and be prepared to talk with your realtor at length about what you are looking for.