5 Tips for Finding a Home Within Your Budget

Salt Lake City Real Estate Video Blog with William Bustos

There are five easy tips to follow if you want to find a home that’s within your budget:

1. Stick to a firm price: Most people begin shopping for a home by going to a bank or lender to determine how much they can afford. They tend to forget, though, that they’re only telling you the maximum amount that you qualify for. They don’t take into consideration variables like your spending habits or other personal habits that subtly affect your finances. Don’t buy a home just because you qualify for it.

2. Communicate with your Realtor: A real estate agent should be your best friend throughout the whole home buying process. They’re going to do all the work for you that you’re likely unqualified to do yourself. Not only that, but as a buyer, you don’t pay for them—the seller does.

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A real estate agent should be your best friend.
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3. Shop only for you: Shopping for homes just because they’re similar to your friends’ or family members’ homes is a mistake. Your needs are yours alone, including your budget.

4. Search for fixer-uppers: Homes that need a little repair will also allow you to stay within your budget. With these types of homes, you also have more room to negotiate with the seller and add your own personal touches to it. Keep in mind, however, that fixer-uppers are not for everybody. They can sometimes require a lot of time and effort.

5. Save for a down payment: Most banks will require you to save for a down payment. The larger your down payment, the more affordable your house will be. Ideally, you want to strive for 20% down. That way, you won’t have to pay for mortgage insurance.

We’d love to answer any questions you might have, whether it’s about finding homes within your budget or anything related to real estate. Just give us a call or send us an email. We look forward to helping you.