10 Things to Take the Trauma Out of Homebuying

1. Find a real estate professional who’s simpatico. Homebuying is not only a big financial commitment, but also an emotional one. It’s critical that the practitioner you chose is both skilled and a good fit with your personality.
2. Remember, there’s no “right” time to buy, any more than there’s a right time to sell. If you find a home now, don’t try to second-guess the interest rates or the housing market by waiting. Changes don’t usually occur fast enough to make that much difference in price, and a good home won’t stay on the market long.
3. Don’t ask for too many opinions. It’s natural to want reassurance for such a big decision, but too many ideas will make it much harder to make a decision.
4. Accept that no house is ever perfect. Focus in on the things that are most important to you and let the minor ones go.
5. Don’t try to be a killer negotiator. Negotiation is definitely a part of the real estate process, but trying to “win” by getting an extra-low price may lose you the home you love.
6. Remember your home doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Don’t get so caught up in the physical aspects of the house itself—room size, kitchen—that you forget such issues as amenities, noise level, etc., that have a big impact on what it’s like to live in your new home.
7. Don’t wait until you’ve found a home and made an offer to get approved for a mortgage, investigate insurance availability, and consider a schedule for moving. Presenting an offer contingent on a lot of unresolved issues will make your bid much less attractive to sellers.
8. Factor in maintenance and repair costs in your post-homebuying budget. Even if you buy a new home, there will be some costs. Don’t leave yourself short and let your home deteriorate.
9. Accept that a little buyer’s remorse is inevitable and will probably pass. Buying a home, especially for the first time, is a big commitment, but it also yields big benefits.
10. Choose a home first because you love it; then think about appreciation. While U.S. homes have appreciated an average of 5.4 percent annually from 1998 to 2002, a home’s most important role is as a comfortable, safe place to live.

45909 wildrye, Van Buren Township Price: $28000 Gorgeous second floor ranch in Meadows. Pond outside door, one of the best settings. Kitchen with oak cabinets and all appliances stay. Neutral color throughout; separate laundry room, appliances included. Huge master bedroom has walk in closet. Nice deck. Building 20, Unit 4.

7627 N INKSTER RD WESTLAND Price: $24900 LIVONIA SCHOOLS! Easy Access to Expressways! Large Rooms and neutral colors throughout. Just a few touches needed to make it your own! All new in early 2000-furnace, windows, steel doors, copper plumbing, breakers, roof tear off and remodeled bath with shower and tub. Nice Yard Too-Fully Fenced with 2 1/2 car detached garage. All offers and commissions are subject to 3rd party approval, short sale, cooperative Seller. Make an Offer!!