Don't Make these Mistakes When Buying a Home!

Here are a few things, particularly as first time buyers, that you want to consider in order to make good decisions....

1. Get prequalified before starting your search. There is nothing worse than falling in love with a home or an area that you can't afford. Take into consideration your comfort level with your monthly payment and adjust from there. Remember to add in insurance, taxes, homeowners association dues.

2. Once you are under contract, be sure to get a home inspection. It's worth the money you will spend many times over and could keep you from buying a "lemon" of a home.

3. Use a Real Estate agent who will work for YOU. A Buyer's agent is your best bet. In Texas, for instance, all agents work for the seller unless you form a buyers relationship with them. If you call a listing agent for information about a property or to show you a property, they do not have your best interests at heart- they work for the seller!

4. Choosing a Real Estate agent who is not committed to forming a strong business

5. Be flexible in your home search options/location. You could miss out some great homes if you aren't a little flexible. Trust your Real Estate Agent to assist you in the process.

6. Think about long-term goals. Will you be staying in this house for a long time? Planning a family? Will you have a family member come and live with you at some point? Do you want this to be your last home? Consider a one story or a home where the master is on the first floor - it's much easier to stay in a home with no stairs.

8. Get a home protection plan. Most of time it can be added to the purchase contract and the Seller will pay for it. Ask for it! This will at least give you some peace of mind regarding potential repairs for the first year you own your home, all for a small service call charge per incident.

9. If Schools are important to you, do your homework. Your agent can help point you in the right direction.

10. Relax and enjoy the process. Trust your instincts and make use of your Real Estate agent's experience and knowledge.

Go to our website at www.ParagonPropertyGroup.com to search for homes and to get more are and real estate information for the Austin, Lake Travis and Highland Lakes area.