?Finding your dream home can be difficult for many reasons, one of which is that your budget often restricts your choices,? said a recent article on RISMedia.com. ?Keeping a healthy budget, coupled with strategic house-hunting practices, can yield the best possible property that not only fits your personal budget, but also meets your lifestyle needs.?
This informative article went on to provide additional tips for finding a house that meets both your need and price range. Here are the highlights:
- Establish a budget.?Sit down and calculate some hard numbers. What do you earn and what do you spend every month? You?ll want to make sure you have a healthy margin between your income and expenses that will allow you to make your mortgage payment every month. A trusted financial adviser or mortgage loan officer from your bank can also provide insight on what you can afford.?
- Work with an agent.?An experienced Realtor will help you tailor your choices to a specific set of properties that meet your personal criteria, and point out the pros and cons of each property in an objective manner.
- Know the neighborhood.?When looking at potential homes, focus on a location that you know is safe and allows access to the facilities and services you will need, such as a good school system for your kids, libraries, hospitals, stores, restaurants, etc.
- Declutter your house.?Unnecessary possessions result in higher moving expenses and can take up valuable space in your new house. Consider selling some items and putting a little extra cash in your wallet!