Spring House Hunting

Spring is a popular season for house hunting because the weather is milder and many people prefer to move before the summer. It is definitely more competitive for a Buyer but the inventory is usually better making Spring a great time to start shopping. Here are some tips for spring house hunting:

Start early: Like I said, the housing market can be competitive in the spring, so it’s a good idea to start your search early. This will give you more time to find the right home and make an offer before someone else does. Making quick decisions will be key in getting that dream home!
Work with a real estate agent: A real estate agent can help you navigate the housing market, find properties that match your criteria, and negotiate with sellers on your behalf. Having an agent represent your interest in a transaction insures that someone is looking out for your best interest and helping to make sure that things are progressing appropriately toward a timely closing.
Get pre-approved for a mortgage: Getting pre-approved for a mortgage before you start house hunting can help you understand your budget and give you an advantage when making an offer. It never hurts to talk to more than one lender to compare what they have to offer. Afterall, purchasing a home is probably going to be your biggest financial investment so make sure you work with the right lender.
Attend open houses: Many sellers hold open houses in the spring to attract potential buyers. Attending these events can help you get a feel for the local housing market and see what types of homes are available in your area. You can visit opens on your own and then contact your agent if you are truly interested in a home you see. Your agent can schedule a private showing to get a better look and write your offer if you decide to pursue it.
Be prepared for bidding wars: In a competitive housing market, it’s not uncommon for multiple buyers to make offers on the same property. Be prepared to make a strong offer and potentially enter a bidding war if you find a home you really want. This is where having your own Realtor will be most advantagous to you.
Consider the location: Spring is a great time to explore different neighborhoods and consider factors such as proximity to schools, public transportation, and amenities. It is a great time of year to just drive in different areas and get a feel of the neighborhood and the activities on any given day.
Get a home inspection: Once you find a home you’re interested in, it’s important to get a home inspection to identify any potential issues with the property. This can help you make an informed decision about whether to move forward with the purchase.