Buying your first home is an exciting step and first-time buyers are eager to skip right to house hunting before they are ready. To avoid disappointment, follow these steps to ensure you are ready and able to make a successful offer on your dream home when you find it. 

1. SAVE

You’re ready to buy a home. The first thing you need to do is start saving for a downpayment (appx 20% of the purchase price). This may seem like a daunting task but it’s not impossible. Look for ways to earn extra money (freelance, pick up overtime shifts), cut expenses, or invest your savings so that your money is working for you!

2. Build Your Credit Score

The higher your credit score the lower your interest rate will be so a healthy credit score is essential. Be sure you pay all of your bills on time, start paying off debt, keep credit card balances low and only apply for/close credit cards as absolutely necessary.

3. Calculate What You Can Afford

As a general rule, you want to spend less than 30% of your monthly income on housing. Calculate your currently monthly payments and what they will be once you purchase a home and compare to your monthly income. 

Things to consider:

• Income: What is your monthly income?

• Debt: Add up your monthly payments (car, insurance, mortgage etc.)

• Closing Costs: how much you will need at closing (adjustments, insurance, taxes, legal fees etc.)

4. Get Mortgage Pre-Approval

Mortgage brokers have access to products from multiples sources so they can shop around for the best deal on your behalf. They will review your income, expenses, and credit score to determine what size of loan you qualify for. Once you are pre-approved, you can shop with confidence for homes at or below your approved price-point. 

What you will need to get pre-approved:

• Proof of income

• Proof of assets

• Good credit

• Employment verification

• Documentation (ID)

5. Decide What You Want In A Home

Visit different neighbourhoods to narrow your search. Create a checklist and be realistic about what you can afford and what you are willing to compromise on. 

6. Choose A Realtor

An experienced REALTOR can be a valuable source of expert advice and local market information. They will guide you through the process, and act as your advocate when negotiating and closing a deal. 

7. START LOOKING FOR HOMES

Now the fun begins: you are ready to start looking at homes! Visit open houses and tour homes with your REALTOR. 

Happy House Hunting!

The long and the short of it is that sales of single family homes in Nanaimo are down 20% compared to last year, and inventory has increased by 14% board-wide. We are seeing a higher volume of listings compared to sales and buyers are negotiating competitively and willing to walk away and wait for a good deal. As always, the key to a quick sale is correctly pricing your home. Well priced homes are selling and may even receive multiple offers.