If you’re considering a move to the quaint and vibrant city of Boston, you may be wondering if now is a good time to buy. With the Boston Real Estate marketBuying a home in Boston, especially if you’re a first time home buyer, can seem like a daunting task. It’s hard to know where to begin to make the process run smoothly and to ensure you’re getting the best home possible. I’ve compiled ten things that will help you along as you begin your Boston home search and will streamline the home buying process. Take a look!
picking up in the spring season, now is a great time to jump ahead of the competition!1. Prioritize Your Housing Needs- Finding a home fast means being flexible. The longer the list of requirements, the harder it will be to find a home. Keep your list short and to the point. Focus on the key elements you’re looking for and let the extras fall as they may.
2. Start Your Search Online- Instead of spending your time perusing neighborhoods for open houses or for sale signs, get online to streamline your search. There are many great homes available in Boston which you can view online.
3. Get Pre-Approved- Finding the home of your dreams and then shopping for a loan is a risky move, as most home sellers won't even look at an offer that's not accompanied by a pre-approval letter. Getting pre-approved ensures you know your exact budget and can save you from a bidding war if many are vying for the same home.
4. Find a Great Agent- This may seem easy, but finding an agent that truly knows the Boston Real Estate market and can show your properties that are right in your price range and meet your style and needs can be challenging. Of course, I’d love to help you in your home search and know that my experience and proven success will make the home buying process an easy one, but my point is to do your homework and really research local agents.
5. Look for Motivated Sellers- Don’t settle for sellers who aren’t willing to budge on a home at the top of your price range; there are too many other great Boston homes out there that will have motivated sellers.
6. Steer Clear of Short Sales- While short sales seem to be flooding the market across the country; if you’re looking for a quick buy, short sales are not the way to go. There is a long process involved with these homes and complications are almost always in the cards.
7. Try a Real Estate Auction- While not common, auctions make the purchasing process quick and streamlined -- in many cases, you tour the property beforehand, make your bid, and close in 30 days if you're the highest bidder.
8. Negotiate Repairs- If an inspection reveals that the home you want to buy requires repairs, taking the responsibility off the seller can help you close the deal quicker. After obtaining estimates, ask the seller for a credit rather than asking them to complete the repairs themselves.
9. Have Cash Ready for Closing- You don't want to be scrambling for funds at the last minute, so be prepared for this important date. A day or two before closing on your Boston home, you'll get the final settlement statement, detailing the terms of your loan and all the closing costs. Be sure to get a certified or cashier's check made out for the total amount you owe at closing, including the down payment since you can’t use a personal check.
10. Have a Plan B- Because not every transaction goes smoothly, be sure you have a property or two as a backup; you don’t want to have to start from scratch!
I hope these tips are helpful as you begin your Boston home search! It can be an exciting time, and I can attest that Boston is a great place to call “home!” If you have any questions about the Boston Real Estate market, or are in need of a Boston Real Estate agent; let me know! I would enjoy showing what makes Boston so unique and helping you find a home that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Feel free to contact me anytime! I look forward to hearing from you!
Patti Fine
Phone: 617-642-7585
Email: pf@pattifine.com
Patti Fine Real Estate
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