The home-buying experience often portrayed in advertising generally seems to focus on couples and families. But these days, only 40% of first-time home buyers are married. The process of purchasing a home for a sole owner may be fairly like that of anyone else, but there are a few slight differences in how a single buyer might approach the home-buying experience.
Here are five ways to make your solo house hunt a success.
1. Finding an Agent
Ask for references from your friends and family, and search for agents on-line in your area.
Once you find a qualified agent, meet with them. You’ll want to ask plenty of questions- don’t let them do all the talking. Look for an agent with knowledge of the entire process-from searching for a home, to finding not-yet-on –the market homes, pocket listings, inspections, appraisals, attorney recommendations, the closing, etc. A great agent will hold your hand through the process. If you are taking out a 203K construction loan, an agent with renovating knowledge is a plus.
2. Be Informed
Be an informed buyer. Check out online resources to find out your rights as a buyer and learn about home-buying programs. When you’re deciding how much home you can afford, consider all recurring expenses that come with owning a home. Think beyond mortgage payments and closing costs — include expenses such as home maintenance and repairs. And if you’re nervous about being turned down for a loan because you’re buying on your own, try not to be. While qualifying for a loan on one income may mean you purchase a smaller home, it doesn’t mean you can’t buy. In fact, banks are not allowed to discriminate against potential home buyers based on marital status. Singles buying a home on one income may want to consider an FHA loan, as borrowers with good credit can qualify for a small down payment.
3. Choose the Right Home Type for You
Are you looking for something to grow into? Or do you want a small starter home you can rent out in the future? Whatever your current and future home needs are, know that you have options regarding the type of home you purchase. Buying a condo or townhouse may leave you with a lower mortgage, but don’t forget about possible homeowners’ association dues and storage fees. And while a smaller place means less to maintain for one-person, regular maintenance is still a homeowner must.
4. House Hunt with Confidence!
Pursuing homeownership on your own doesn’t mean you have to decide everything solo. Bring one or two of your close friends who have recently purchased a home and who you know can offer honest feedback. If you plan to move to the suburbs to get more house for your buck, consider if you’d really be happy living away from your favorite downtown spots. Try commuting to and from your potential home from work, your friends’ homes, and your favorite shops and restaurants. If you discover it’s a tad too far for comfort, narrow your home search. Once you find a few neighborhoods you love, look at the crime data. There are plenty of online tools that can help you check the safety of a neighborhood. And as you scope out houses and communities, take note of enclosed backyards and security gates. Because there may not be someone home during hours you’re typically away, you’ll want to be mindful of security precautions during your house hunt.
5. Make an Informed Offer
If you’re buying as a singleton, you may not have someone by your side to help you figure out what to offer or how to negotiate. This is where finding the best real estate agent for you will serve you well. Talk to your agent about how your offer may stack up against recent sales in the area, as well as the possible concessions you can get from the sellers. Whether you’ve just started considering purchasing your first home or you’re newly single and buying on your own for the first time, these five steps will ensure you’re a smart and savvy solo buyer, and help you land a home of your own.