Homeownership has been decreasing in the United States since 2006. While some people might speculate that the American Dream no longer includes a house of one’s own, this doesn’t seem to be the case. According to CNN Money, it’s not that people don’t want to buy but that they are worried about money. If you want a house of your own, you don’t need to let finances stand in the way. Read on to learn how you can succeed in finding and affording your dream home.

Assess your financial capabilities

Don’t enter the real estate market blindly. Before you start searching, get a handle on money matters. Look at your savings, investments, and income, and consider how much you can realistically afford in terms of a down payment and mortgage. To get a great mortgage rate, you’ll need a solid credit score, and have to prove employment and income stability. Your debt-to-income ratio is another factor lenders will consider.

Once you have some idea of what you can afford — which should take into account the amount you’ll pay to cover the closing costs — you can take a look at listings to see if your financial capabilities match the market. Use an online tool like Redfin to get started. You can search different geographic locations. Keep in mind prices vary depending on factors like neighborhood and size.

Find a reputable real estate agent

Although online tools are a great way to get a feel for the market, when it comes to actually finding a property, put your trust in a reputable real estate agent. Realtors have professional experience and knowledge that will simplify the process. They can guide you through everything from finding the property to closing the deal. 

To find a compatible agent, look locally. You want a professional who is well acquainted with your area’s market. The internet is a good place to start your search. Reatlors should be members of the National Association of Realtors, which means they have pledged to follow the NAR Code of Ethics. 

Take the time to view properties in person

It’s easy to fall in love with glossy professional photos of perfectly staged real estate online. If you want to get an accurate impression of what your future home is really like, however, it’s imperative that you visit it in person. An open house is an opportunity for potential buyers to get an inside look at a property. 

When you visit an open house, don’t just look—ask questions. This is a chance to get valuable information via the current owners. If you have kids, you can ask what the area is like, whether it’s child-friendly, and if there are schools nearby. You can also request details about the property itself, like whether recent renovations have been made and how much the utilities tend to cost. These details allow you to make a more informed decision when buying.

Prepare for your move well in advance

It may take some time but, eventually, you will find a place that you love. Once your future home is secured, don’t delay planning your move. Tackle one room at a time so that your entire house isn’t in disarray. Start with rooms you use less often, like the family room, and save those you use the most—like the kitchen—for last. Pack boxes on a room-by-room basis and note how many boxes there are for each room to avoid losing track of any. If you need moving assistance, hire a moving company well in advance (it costs an average of $80 to $100 per hour to get professional assistance with a short distance move, for example).

Buying a home is exciting but it’s also nerve-wracking. This is understandable, as it’s a large financial investment and personal commitment. With these tips, you can be confident in the process and be sure it will run smoothly.

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