Homebuyers
TIPS FOR FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS
Are you among the thousands of people in Vancouver who pay rent each month, knowing full well that you will never see that money again? This doesn’t have to be the case. Instead, why not take that money and build it into an investment that can last a lifetime? Right now there are excellent opportunities for first-time buyers. Mortgage rates are lower and there are plenty of well priced home to choose from.
Questions to Ask
WHAT KIND OF HOME DO YOU NEED/WANT?
Buying a home is a balance of many requirements such as family size, location, income and lifestyle. REALTORS are excellent sources of advice and help in these matters. Not only do they have the experience and knowledge to make sure the choice you make will be the right one, but with access to the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®), they can seek out suitable properties for you and provide you with a customized list of homes that meet your needs, wants and budget.
ASK YOURSELF EXACTLY WHAT YOU NEED IN A HOME
How close to schools or shopping centres? Do you plan to have children? How many bedrroms then? Do you need a garage or a finished basement? New homes offer extensive warranties and pristine conditions but may not have character, trees or landscaping. Older homes often include improvements such as finished basements or rec rooms, decks and patios. Be sure to have any resale home inspected for needed repairs or upgrading.
DECIDE ON THE BEST LOCATION FOR YOU
Living in the city means you will be close to amenities such as theatres and shopping. If you prefer a more rural lifestyle, make sure the extra time spent driving each day won’t detract from your enjoyment of the property.
Townhomes and condominiums are obviously suited to particular lifestyles or budgets. Townhome or condominium living offers convenience and often means sharing common areas such as parking, hallways and landscaping.
WHAT CAN YOU AFFORD?
Once you have determined what it is you want and need, you’ll have to find out what you can afford. The first tip is to set a maximum price range instead of just an upper price. It’s not always wise to buy the most expensive home you can afford but better to aim lower in anticipation of extra costs or fluctuations in your income.
A REALTOR or your financial institution can help you determine the amount of the mortgage you can carry by calculating your debt-service ratio. The rule of thumb is that the sum of all your current loan payments (car, personal, credit card, etc.) plus your mortgage should not exceed 40 per cent of your gross income. In addition, mortgage payments and property taxes should not be more than 30 per cent of gross income.
Buying your first home may seem intimidating in the beginning, but with careful planning, a clear idea of what you want and the help of a REALTOR, home ownership can be become a joyful reality for you and your family.
READY TO MAKE A MOVE?
Trust a local agent with the experience, knowledge, and expertise to make the most of your purchase or sale.