But since houses can’t talk, how do you make sure you’re hiring the right home? Here are 10 tips on being the perfect home buyer:
Just like how a potential employer may be interviewing other applicants, the seller will also be talking to other interested buyers.
Now that you’re sure the seller would like you, it’s time to see if you like the house.
Much like a job interview, be professional. Don’t show too much enthusiasm to the seller, even if you really, really like the house.
Come negotiating time, everything you say or do may be used against you. So from the viewing, and even after it (don’t post anything online just yet!), keep quiet about your feelings towards the home.
Did the house satisfy all qualifications on your checklist? Great! Now with that poker face on, ask more about what the house has to offer, and what it may lack.
The seller will always put up the best photos of the property on the listing. So if you can (remember to ask the seller first!), take photos of the house for you to review later on.
As professional and probing as you are, remember that it’s not your house (yet). Go through the house like you were a friend invited to view a friend’s new house.
Just like an employer would require a medical examination before signing a contract, hire a home inspector before you close the deal.
Much like you would do a background check on a potential employee, do one on the house you are planning to buy, too.
Another thing people usually forget when buying a house is the lifestyle around it. Does the neighbor’s dog bark all throughout the night? Is there a commercial building around the area that makes rush hour traffic unbearable? These are things you’d want to know.
Sound knowledge of the market will help you gauge whether it’s the right time to buy, but obsessively studying and following market trends may only cause you unhealthy and unnecessary fear.
The market will always be unpredictable. It’s easier to be sure of yourself. If you followed everything mentioned above and you think you’ve really found the perfect house with the right price, then it’s time!
Last but not the least, when you’re finally ready to make that offer, remember two important things:
The house’s worth – Just as much as you shouldn’t be too enthusiastic, don’t be too stingy either. Don’t offend the owner with an offer that’s too low. This will only lower your chances of getting the house. Your Realtor will be your best resource in establishing a winning offer.
