Buyers: Don’t Be Spooked This Halloween

Halloween can be a spooky time, but it shouldn’t scare first-time buyers.

The Halloween season can be a spooky time for homebuyers. We are constantly approached by new homebuyers who tell us how afraid they are to enter the market. To them, the process can seem very scary. Here are some things that you shouldn’t be scared of when buying your first home:

1. Shopping around for better interest rates. This is actually a very important thing for homebuyers, both new and experienced. Unfortunately, buyers might get a single pre-approval from one lender and think they’re done. Don’t be afraid of talking to multiple lenders because of the impact on your credit report: There’s a 21 to 30-day window where you can talk to as many as you want, and it will only come up as a single credit pull.

2. Talk to multiple lenders. Not just because you want to ensure you’re getting the best available rate but also because you want to make sure that you’re comfortable with the fees and other costs associated with those lenders. 

3. Explore your loan options. Many times, buyers just aren’t educated about the many different loan types and options that are available to them. More than one potential loan style could fit your financial needs and situation. Your lender and Realtor can help you learn about those different options and how they impact you on a monthly and lifetime scale. 

“The Halloween season can be a spooky time for homebuyers.”

4. Talk to different real estate agents. At the end of the day, you want to work with an agent who you are comfortable with and whose knowledge of the business and experience you trust. Pair yourself with a team who can take the time to educate you on the process and walk you through it. 

5. Don’t be afraid of home-maintenance costs. When you’re renting, you can simply call up the landlord and have any problems fixed. Jumping into a purchase where those problems are something you need to take responsibility for can be daunting. That’s why we recommend you get a home inspection to help plan for repairs that might be upcoming. It provides peace of mind when it comes to taking the plunge into home ownership.

Most importantly, remember all of the resources that are available to help you, particularly your favorite real estate team. Reach out to us any time by phone or email, and we’d be happy to answer any questions that you may have both before and after a sale.