1. Research homes and neighborhoods before you look. Decide what features you most want to have in a home, the neighborhoods you prefer, and how much you’d be willing to spend each month for housing. Picking a home and neighborhood is also picking a lifestyle. You can do a lot of your research here at Phoenix Market Trends. Search for data and articles or let us know how we can help you and we'll point the way to the information. Our contact information is below. 2. Be realistic. It’s OK to be picky, but don’t be unrealistic with your expectations. There’s no such thing as a perfect home. Use your list of priorities, your needs before wants, as a guide to evaluate each property. 3. Get your finances in order. Financing is just as important as the home. Review your credit report and be sure you have enough money to cover your down payment and closing costs. You get a free credit report from each agency one a year. Then, talk to a lender and get pre-qualified for a mortgage. Getting ready will save you the heartache later of falling in love with a house you can’t afford. 4. Don’t ask too many people for opinions. Select one or two people to turn to if you feel you need a second opinion, but be ready to make the final decision on your own. 5. Decide your moving time-line. When is your lease up or how long will it take to sell your current home? What about schools and jobs. How will moving affect those aspects. 6. Think of your time frame at the new home. Are you looking for a starter house with plans to move up in a few years, or do you hope to stay in this home for a longer period? This decision may dictate what type of home you’ll buy as well as the type of mortgage terms that will best suit you. This is an often overlook step. 7. Insist on a home inspection. If possible, get a warranty from the seller to cover defects for one year. A home inspection is a must and well worth the expense, considering the alternatives. Get help from a professional real estate adviser. As a buyer there is not cost to you for representation, for someone to help you through the process from start to finish.
Joanna Zajusz, GRI Buyer representation. 602-358-1392 | 
