The First-Time Home Buyers' Ultimate Guide

After working hard for a pretty long time, you have finally decided to buy your own place. It has been a dream of yours, and the time has come to fulfill it. Now, you are super nervous because of the lump sum investment you are about to make. But, this guide will make this process of selecting a house super simple and enjoyable at the same time! So, stick to the end of the blog for thorough details.

The First-Time Homebuyer Advantage

1.      How’s your financial health? 

Unless you are sure of your budget and accounts, you can’t build a home. Know where you stand financially before you end up spending a good amount on the new home. Depending on what you earn and how much loan you can take, the house hunting will change. Avoid going over-budget with the buying process because there’s a lot to be done once you purchase the home, like interior decorations and more.

2.      Which type of home will best suit your needs?

Are you looking for an apartment for you and your partner or a big condo to accommodate your extended family members under one roof? Some of you might want to live secluded amidst nature and away from the hustle and bustle of busy city horns and lights. So, understand the best type of home that matches not just your need but your pocket as well, before the next move.

3.      Which specific features do you want your ideal home to have?

Everyone wants something special or some specified features to differentiate their place from the rest. You have always wanted a sprawling garden in the backyard, where you can sit back and relax while enjoying your evening cup of tea! Maybe, you wanted a big swimming pool with an artificial waterfall to spend holidays with your kids in a fun-filled way! So, list out those specified features before going house hunting.

4.      How much mortgage do you qualify for?

As one general rule, you can afford a mortgage, around 2 times or 2.5 times your gross income. The total mortgagee section is made up of taxes, interest, principal, and insurance. So, cover these points thoroughly before finalizing the mortgage you are qualified to pay for. It helps in your home hunting business.

5.      How much home can you afford?

There is always a good rule to follow regarding how much home to afford. It will be the 28% or 36% rule. It means that you must never spend more than 28% of the gross monthly income on any of the home-based costs. Moreover, the total debts need to be not more than 36%. It should include credit cards, mortgages, other loans, and more.

6.      Who will help you find a home and guide you through the purchase?

You can either ask a broker or real estate agent to help you find a home or can just come up with Element Home Builders for the same. If you have any family members or friends who recently went through the same process of a new home purchase, then you are most welcome to ask for their help as well.

Building Process

If you think about it, you need to follow a thorough custom home building process with the construction workers. So, let’s get on with that detail!

• The first step is getting the plans ready and then focusing on all the permits you need to start the construction process.
• Then it will start with the site work and masonry phase.
• The third step deals with the framing work, followed by plumbing, electricity, and others.
• The last step deals with insulation, flooring, and drywall before you can get the keys.

Congratulations, New Homeowner! Now What?

Keep saving

With the new home already in your hand, now it is time to keep up with the savings work. Don’t forget that you need to pay for the mortgage and home loans!

Perform regular maintenance

To maintain the longevity of your place, proper and regular maintenance is indeed a necessity. You can do it on your own and call professionals sometimes.

Ignore the housing market

Once you have your dream house, ignore the housing market for the time being. It will prevent you from getting attracted to new apartments or places.

Build a dream home with Element Home Builder

With Element Home Builder by your side, you will not just get your first home but can customize it as well! So, give them a call now!