Buying a House

Whether you’re looking to invest in your first home or are looking for a change, buying your home requires some diligence on your part. There is a Latin term, Caveat Emptor, which roughly translated means “let the buyer beware” and it's a smart mindset to have. It is the buyer’s responsibility to investigate the property before buying. If this is your first time or even if you are a seasoned buyer, find a highly rated and trusted realtor in your area, as they will be able to guide you through the process and make sure you are taking the appropriate steps to protect yourself.

Unless you are paying ALL cash for your purchase, be careful about making a major purchase around the same time as the buying of your home, as banks often interpret new debt as possibly getting in the way of your mortgage payments, depending on your income and the cost of your home. They’ll also look at your employment history. Taking a new job while getting a home can be interpreted as a lack of job security.

It is a great idea to hire a professional inspector to look over the home. They will look past the cosmetic improvements on the surface and examine the nooks and crannies for signs of problems. They will check the state of the foundation and the electrical. If the house is older and hasn’t been renovated, it would be smart to make sure there’s no asbestos present in the home. Always ask questions and keep asking questions until they have been answered to your satisfaction.