I'm Psyched

[Catiana]

I just got pre-qualified to buy my very first house. I'm so excited. I can't wait to start looking and find just the perfect house. Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee :)

Any pointers for a newbie house buyer. I already have a Realtor helping me, we just have to get out and start looking.

[Flux]

Yay!!! How exciting!!!

[Cindlady2]

This may sound strange but do it at least until you've looked at several houses.

Make a list of all the things the house Must have to make you happy.
And a list of things that are in the NO WAY category.

It's real easy when you first start looking to be swept up in the excitement and wind up with something that really isn't for YOU!

Also try to catch a glimpse of the neighbors and look good at the neighborhood. Do you feel like you fit in? Nothing like loving the house and hating the neighborhood. Also if you plan on having pets or a garden or a fence etc. find out what's OK and what's not. Some places have ordnances about the stupidest things!

When you found something you like, try to have a 3rd party (someone experienced) come and look at it for structural issues.

Good Luck and be patient!

[debnmike]

Excellent Advice!

The Must list and the Must Not list is a great one...

Make sure you know the bylaws of your HOA (if you have one). Some of them are real sticklers and stuff can become a giant pain in the @ss.

check and double check all the appliances (especially the big stuff like the AC and water heater). You'd be surprised what can pass an inspection!

Get a certified home inspector...some states require an inspection before a loan is approved. If not, get one anyway. It's their job to check everything from the foundation to the attic and everything in between.

Also, depending on where you live you may need a termite bond, or live in a flood zone making insurance a fun thing.

Hope this helps!
Congratulations to you!!

[Malcolm]

variable interest rate on your mortgage = BAD!!!!!

[Catiana]

Thanks for all of the great advice, I've already made up my new house checklist, which I'll bring to each house I look at. I've already looked at one, I really liked it alot but there was one problem I can't overlook so that one's a no. I'm supposed to look at another one tomorrow. I'm being very careful with what I choose. There is no rush to find a the right house so I'm not going to get anything that isn't exactly what I want. And I've already told my Realtor I absolutely do not want a neighborhood with an HOA. There are alot of older neighborhoods here that don't have them, so it won't be a problem.

[Faeawyn]

location-location-location!!!
Lots of storage...you'll regret it later if theres not enough. Check for cracks in the foundation, level ceilings inside, water damage, is the house termite bonded....block construction or wood? Are the fireplaces in working order and have they been cleaned recently. Definitely find out about the neighbors. Neighbors can make your life hell.