The first step in buying a home is to secure a pre-approval, which sets a firm price range and gives you the confidence to explore homes. Mortgages are more difficult to secure in the current market, so being preapproved will give you the best chance at getting approved for a home loan.
Then you should research down payment assistance programs, if available in your area. These can help you cover your down payment and closing costs, reducing the amount of cash you will need to put down on your home. If you have friends or relatives who may be willing to offer a down payment, you should initiate the conversation well before home-buying season.
It’s also a good idea to take stock of your finances six to nine months before you start looking at homes. That way you’ll have a clear picture of your finances and know how much you can afford to spend.
Once you’ve figured out how much house you can afford, set a budget to stick to. This will keep you from overspending or wasting time on homes that don’t meet your needs.
If you’re not sure where to start, consider using a home-buying service that buys houses from homeowners. Some of these services even handle the entire transaction for you, from finding a buyer to selling your home. Click here https://www.kindhousebuyers.com/wa/covington/
Some of these companies can provide you with a cash offer within hours. They’ll pay for your moving expenses, if applicable, and can usually close within seven days.
Founded in 2003, Express Homebuyers buys houses from people all over the country. Their online questionnaire allows them to determine how much they can offer on your home, and you’ll receive a fair cash offer for it quickly.
They also offer a free appraisal, which can help you determine how much your home is worth. Besides being a faster option, this company offers more personalized service than many of the larger iBuyer companies.
Another option is to work with a real estate agent. However, if you decide to sell your home with an agent, make sure the agency is licensed and insured by the state or local government.
If you choose to sell your home with a professional, be sure to get references from satisfied customers, and review the contract before signing it. Having a trusted agent can make the difference between a smooth home sale and one that goes sideways.
Alternatively, you can try a house-buying website, such as Zillow Instant Offers. These websites have a large network of cash buyers who can make you an offer immediately.
These sites typically make offers in a wide range of prices, from 70% to 90% of your home’s value. This is based on the “after repair value” of your home, which takes into account deductions to make repairs and renovations.
Generally, cash offers are made with little or no money down. Depending on your credit score and the current housing market, this can be an excellent option if you need to get out of your home fast.
