For some people, going to showings is the fun part of buying a home. For others, it's overwhelming, inconvenient and confusing. Regardless of which of these categories you belong to, remember that the showing begins far before you walk in the door.
Arriving at a home showing prepared is essential in making sure you get all of the information you need.
But what exactly does that entail?
Do your homework
There's a lot you can learn about a home from internet searches. You'll find that the more research you do ahead of time, the less overwhelming a showing may become, especially if you are a first-time homebuyer.
Most people look at photos of a home before they set up a showing, but it's important to take a deep dive. Ask what's missing, what strikes you as a concern and what excites you about the home. Then, bring those questions to the showing so you can take a closer look.
Additionally, if you're moving to a new location, do some research on the neighborhood.
How safe is it? How are the public schools or parks? What's the nightlife like, if any?
See how much of that information you can uncover on your own, and jot down any further questions you have for the owners or realtor.
Remember, when you buy a home, you're not just moving into a new building — you're signing up to live in a new area with a different community. There's a lot more to uncover about a home than just the property itself.
Bring supplies
Don't arrive at a showing empty-handed. Bring the tools you need to get as much information about the home as possible and keep a record of it.
For one thing, you should bring some paper and a pen. You may not remember everything you learn at the showing later, especially if you're touring multiple homes. Jotting down notes is a great way to keep track of pros and cons. If you have a notes app on your smartphone, you could use that instead, but remember to actually use it!
A cell phone is also useful for taking pictures of the home. Not every nook and cranny of the property will be available to look at online, so taking extra pictures can help you remember the whole home when you're thinking about it later.
You could also bring a measuring tape to get a better idea of how your furniture will look in the home. This is especially useful in an empty home. The realtor will likely know the dimensions of each room, but if you want to get into the nitty gritty of furniture placement, this is a smart strategy.
Keep an open mind
When doing research on a home ahead of time, it's easy to form a full picture of a property in your mind before you even see it. Remember that it might not end up being exactly what you've built it up to be.
Arrive at a showing expecting the unexpected. You never know what quirks a home might have, and they might just end up being the things you love about your future home most.
Contact us today for more information on buying a home.
This information is intended for educational purposes only. Products and interest rates subject to change without notice. Loan products are subject to credit approval and include terms and conditions, fees and other costs. Terms and conditions may apply. Property insurance is required on all loans secured by property. VA loan products are subject to VA eligibility requirements. Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) interest rates and monthly payment are subject to adjustment. Upon submission of a full application, a mortgage banker will review and provide you with the terms, conditions, disclosures, and additional details on the interest rates that apply to you individual situation.
