6 Ways to Stand Out as a Homebuyer

Buying a home is an exciting process, but it can also cause a considerable amount of stress, especially if you’re buying in a competitive housing market.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways for you to stand out from the crowd and land the home of your dreams.

Medium Brush Stroke

It’s also a good idea to have an understanding of mortgages and what you may need during your home-buying experience. Here are six tips and tricks that will catch a seller’s eye.

1. Be Preapproved for a Mortgage

Sellers in hot markets can only accept one offer at a time. If yours includes a preapproval letter from a mortgage lender.

Getting preapproved benefits you as well. For one thing, it tells you how much you’re likely to qualify for so you can focus your search on homes that are in your price range.

2. Make Your Best Offer

While everyone loves a bargain, you may not find one in a hot real estate market. Trying to underbid in a seller’s market means you’ll probably lose to a competitor.

Running the numbers before you look for a house and especially before you make an offer, is extremely helpful because you have to think beyond the loan payment itself.

3. Forget the Small Stuff

When you look at homes in a competitive market, don’t fall in love with anything that is separate from the actual property, such as window treatments, appliances or porch furniture.

Rather than get hung up on small details during negotiations, stay focused on the most important elements. Is the roof sound? Are there issues with the foundation? Does the plumbing work OK?

4. Act Quickly

When you find a home that you really want to buy, you can’t deliberate too long. Time is of the essence when you’re competing with buyers that have their hearts set on the same property.

SWIPE UP NOW TO READ MORE

Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free quiz matches you with fiduciary financial advisors in your area or who serve your area. If you are ready to be matched with financial advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, take the quiz now.