When buying a home, you may be spending the most money you ever spent or will spend in your entire life. You will have many decisions to make, and many questions to ask. It might be right away, in a few weeks to find your dream home, or it may take you longer. But the process is the same. The first thing you need to do is get approved for a loan, so you know what you qualify for. You can get a Home Loan from a Bank or a Mortgage Broker. Mortgage Brokers can often times have more options for loans, especially for First Time Home Buyers. If you are working with a Ral Estate Agent, they usually have Mortgage Brokers that they work with and can refer you to one. GET A LOAN FIRST. Quick Note – Just because you qualify for $1,000,000 doesn’t mean you need to spend $1,000,000. Live within your means, make a real budget and stick to it. When looking for a home you may not find the perfect home. You may need to be a little flexible. One way to think about a home is - There are 3 types of homes. A Yes/Yes Home a Yes/No Home and a No/No home. A Yes/Yes home is a – I love this home, everything about it I want to buy it now. A Yes/No home is a - I really like this home and with a few changes (Paint, Carpet, New Counter Tops, Some Upgrades and good price) I would really love it. I would like to put in an oƯer. A No/No Home is there is nothing you could do to this home that would make me want it. Decide if there are any deal breakers on a home, (If it has or does not have, I don’t want it,) be flexible and realistic and you will find your dream home. Happy Hunting.

Diane Johnson