Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you will make in your life. It is important to take the time to think through the process. We have provided some questions and tips to help you with your decision.First you need to decide if home ownership is right for you. Here are two main areas to consider when deciding to buy a home. Think about the impact homeownership will have on your lifestyle and your finances.

 

• Lifestyle – Set up a simple pros and cons list of renting vs. buying. Consider things like shoveling snow, maintaining your home both inside and out, and what you want to spend your free time doing.

 

• Financially – can you afford not only a down payment and mortgage payments, but the repairs and maintenance that come along with homeownership? Can you be financially disciplined enough? A good thing to do is figure out what your budget would be like with a mortgage payment and other bills that come with owning a home and see if you can live on that budget for a few months. For help putting together a budget and more info on the financial aspects of buying a home see our Resources section.

 

Aside from the investment of your time and money, buying a home is an emotional investment too. So think about if you are ready to commit to the highs and lows that come with homeownership.Once you have decided that home ownership is right for you, the next step is to figure out what you need and want in your home. Here is a simple process to go through to help you to choose your new home.

 

• Make a simple list of the things you want and need in a new home. When making these lists it is important to start big and then work down to the details. You should start with the kind of neighbourhood you want to live in i.e. Do you need to live close to the expressway? Which schools do you want your children to attend? Is having a gym nearby important? Once you have narrowed down the type of neighbourhood you want to live in you can start on the aspects of your home. Start with the needs and then work your way down to the small details you want. Remember it is much easier to change the kitchen cabinets than add an additional bedroom, so don’t get caught up in the details.

 

Once you know what you want in a home, your REALTOR® will be able to provide matches to your criteria and help you find your dream home.

 

The process?

• Before you start anything make sure your finances are in order. The best thing to do is get pre-approved for a mortgage to find out how much you can afford.

• Sit down with an agent and go over your lists.

• Your agent will get to work finding suitable matches for you.

• You can drive around and find areas you like on your own.  

• Go to the neighbourhoods you like on the weekends and check out open houses.

• Once you find a home you like your agent can set up a viewing so you can spend some time really checking it out.

• If you like it then it is time to put in an offer.

 

 

If your offer is accepted and you fulfill all of the conditions you will be a home owner. Once you are a homeowner it is important that you maintain your home to the highest standard possible. Pay close attention and fix anything you notice right away. Letting a small leak go for a while can cost you a lot down the road. Keeping your house in good repair will really help its value when you are ready to sell.