Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, purchasing a home can be an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. The process of purchasing a home can seem overwhelming, but it can be simplified with the right information. From pre-approval to closing, there are a number of steps and considerations to keep in mind. By knowing these, you can make well-informed decisions and sidestep typical pitfalls. In this post, we'll give you all the information you need for navigating the homebuying process so that you can start building a life in your new home. 

Pre-approval 

The pre-approval process is an essential step for anyone looking to purchase a home. This process covers a few things. Most importantly, it determines how much of a loan you qualify for. You have to know this so that you can shop for homes in the price range that are manageable for your budget. Pre-approval also gives both parties involved in the transaction - buyer and seller - an added layer of security. In order to get pre-approved, you will need to provide the lender documents such as pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns, and other investments. 

If you have these things in hand before you plan to shop, the process will go more quickly. Additionally, with pre-approval, negotiations will move faster because you will be able to secure everything in advance. That being said, It is important not to wait until after house hunting to get pre-approved. This is because waiting could create delays and confusion - thus risking the chance of not getting approved at all. 

House Hunting 

As soon as you have enough money saved for a down payment and have calculated how much you can spend on a house, you should begin your search. Finding out as much as possible about houses in your area is a good idea, whether you're working with a real estate agent or going at it alone. You may narrow down your search by researching various communities' prices, crime statistics, and proximity to surrounding schools. Hansen Bros. Moving & Storage Seattle experts also recommend getting in contact with local moving experts to get their two cents about the neighborhoods you are interested in.

Home Inspection 

Getting a home inspection before purchasing a house is vitally important for potential homeowners. A home inspector will perform a detailed examination of the entire property, looking for defects and potential problems. The inspector will typically examine the structure of the building, plumbing systems, electrical systems, and any necessary certifications like smoke detectors or CO/carbon monoxide detectors. Additionally, during an inspection, you should look for areas that would require future maintenance in order to prevent additional costs. 

By identifying these areas in advance, you may be able to address the issue before closing. Additionally, you may be able to make adjustments to the pricing of the home. That being said, home inspections are not always necessary when purchasing a house. However, we recommend that you do them as they can greatly reduce risks if you are unsure about what condition the property is in. With so much riding on this process, getting an objective opinion from an experienced home inspector is essential to make sure have found the ideal home you have been looking for. 

Financing 

One of the most important aspects of navigating the homebuying process is financing. This process can seem confusing, but understanding the basics can make it much easier to navigate. There are three main types of mortgages available: