First time home buyers

Guide for first time home buyers

With the varied options available to first time home buyers looking for real estate in the Fraser Valley, the home buying process may seem like an extremely daunting task. While this may be true, there are certain steps that you can take to ensure that you have an enjoyable and stress free experience as you look to buy your first home.

Fraser Valley real estate agent

Your first step in the home buying process, especially when buying your first home, should be to use the services of a real estate agent. The real estate agent you choose must have good knowledge of the specific community that you are considering. So if you are considering moving to either Surrey or Langley, be sure to choose a real estate agent that is local to these communities. Your real estate agent must be personable and someone that you feel comfortable with, after all you are going to be spending numerous hours together looking for a home. Interview a few agents and choose one that will help guide you through the process.

Be sure to sign a Buyer's Agency Agreement with your real estate agent. The services of a Buyer's Agent are free to the buyers; they get paid by the seller's Listing Agent. However, by signing a Buyer's Agent Agreement you ensure that your real estate agent will only work for you and no one else. Your real estate agent will be bound to look out for your best interest and will work to ensure that you get the most for your money.

Research Fraser Valley real estate

Your next step should be to use the Internet to research the markets that you are considering. Use the "Search the MLS" feature of this site to search for listings in the neighbourhoods that you are considering. This search displays properties that match your search criteria, thus saving you the trouble of sifting through thousands of irrelevant properties to find the ones that interest you. Be sure to save your favourites.

Never call the listing agent directly. A listing agent is the seller's agent. He or she has no obligation to represent your interests. Be sure to contact your real estate agent and ask them to schedule a viewing of the properties that you are interested in.

Your Fraser Valley home - Know what you can afford

It is always a good idea to have a realistic estimate of what you can afford. Without knowing what you can afford, you will be facing nothing but disappointment as you look to buy your first home. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage will give you an accurate picture of what you can afford and put you in a better position to make a serious offer when you do find the right one.

Unless you have a large inheritance coming your way, chances are that getting a mortgage will be a very important part of the home buying process. Make sure you are working with a reputable mortgage broker.

These steps will go a long way in helping you search for a new home with confidence and at the best rate possible. No matter what, be sure to use a Buyer's Agent to help you sort out all the options that you have during this exciting time.