Buying a home for the first time is exciting, but it’s a process that quickly overwhelms first-time buyers who don’t have a plan. Before searching for properties, newbies need to take care of preparatory business. Doing the following will make buying a home in Arkansas less stressful and more enjoyable.
Clean Up Credit Issues
A higher credit score means better interest rates and lower house payments. Buyers who have shaky credit histories will want to take steps to raise their score. This might mean paying off outstanding loans, paying down credit card balances, or even waiting to buy until one’s credit scores improve.
Get Pre-Approved
Sellers don’t take buyers’ offers seriously unless a pre-approval letter accompanies the offer. In fact, most won’t even accept an offer if the buyer hasn’t already been pre-approved for financing. The pre-approval process is beneficial because it lets buyers know much they can spend on a home and helps buyers narrow down properties that fall within this price range.
Save for a Down Payment
Most lenders want buyers to have a down payment equal to as much as 20% of the home’s sale price. While there are first-time buyer programs available that don’t require a down payment, not everyone qualifies for these loans.
Hire a Buyer’s Agent
Too often, people make the mistake of thinking real estate agents are only for sellers. Hiring a realtor to help one purchase a home is essential for negotiating the sale terms and helping to find the best properties. First-time buyers wanting to buy a home in Arkansas can contact Curtis Realty Group online at website .
