Everything to consider before the house hunt

When we purchase a house, we aren't just looking for someplace to live. We're looking for a home to make memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're buying your first home or opening the next chapter in your family's life, understanding how to choose a house will help you find a home that brings happiness for years to come.

Step 1: Set your budget

Before you look for a home, you need to know what you can afford. That's where your local CrossCountry Mortgage loan officer comes in! They'll get you pre-approved so you can make a budget and stay a step ahead of other house hunters. By working with a local loan officer, you'll also gain insight into your housing market, financing to fit your long-term goals, and dedicated service to make your bid a win.

Step 2: Find the right community

The next step in finding your dream home is finding your dream neighborhood. It's important to keep in mind you're not just buying a house - you're investing in a community. To make the right choice, ask yourself these questions:

• Do you prefer quiet streets or an active area?
• Is walkability important?
• Would you like to live near nature?
• What shopping and restaurants do you want nearby?
• Is an older neighborhood or newer development more appealing?

Once you've determined what you want out of your community, run this background check on potential neighborhoods:

• Find crime rates online
• Talk to the local police department
• Drive around the area
• Walk through the community at various times
• Check for public transportation
• Research current and historic property values
• Look up the area's property taxes

After you've learned its trends, you can be sure the community you've picked will make you and your family feel at home.

Step 3: Find the right house

Now it's time to house hunt! Much like the neighborhood, this starts with a list of needs and desires for your family's new home. Consider the following:

• How many bedrooms do we need?
• How many bathrooms?
• What does our perfect kitchen look like?
• How big of a yard do we want?
• How much storage space is important?

Next, make sure not to get distracted by non-essentials. While an indoor jacuzzi may be a nice perk, be sure your dream home's essentials are in working order. These include:

• Heating and cooling systems
• Plumbing
• Windows
• Roof

Once you know you're up to code, you can feel confident buying your dream home.

Step 4: Buy your dream home

Still haven't found the right house? Don't worry - your agent and loan officer are here to help. They can show you options you might not know about, such as buying an older home and fixing it up with a renovation loan. Talk to your CrossCountry Mortgage loan officer to start your homeownership journey today.