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First Time Home Buyer Suggestions

Santa Barbara is an expensive community. There is no getting around that fact.

If you are ready to take the plunge (which I have been known to say is really more like a cannonball into the deep end…but then you learn to tread water and the appreciation begins…), then read on for some 1st time home buyer suggestions!

The couple above bought this house in 2008 and asked me to help them sell it in 2017. We then worked together to purchase them a larger home in Goleta. 
VILLAGE PROPERTIES LOOKS TO HELP FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS WITH NEW SERIES DEDICATED TO THEM

If you’re a first-time homebuyer or someone close to you is, you’re in luck! Village Properties is kicking off its First-Time Home Buyer series to help people make the best decision when purchasing their first home.

Home Buying 101 – Let’s Talk Money
We know exactly what lenders are looking for and how to make yourself an ideal candidate so you can get a quality lender at a rate you’ll be thrilled about. Here are our top tips on how to be the best first-time buyer possible:

1. Know Your Credit 
Prior to beginning your home search, find out the exact condition of your credit. You can check your score and credit details free using reputable sites like CreditKarma.com. This is a necessary first step before submitting a mortgage application. Dispute any errors that could be dragging down your credit score and look for opportunities to improve your credit, such as making a dent in any outstanding debts.
Do you have credit blemishes? Hire a pro to help repair them. A good, inexpensive place to start is Lexington Law. They will try to get mistakes or old dings off your credit for good. Nothing’s guaranteed, but it’s a good place to start.

2. Best Mortgage Application Practices

There are a few key factors you must consider before you apply for a mortgage, such as:

  • Determining exactly how much you can afford (based on things like income and debt ratio).
  • Know and understand your price range and avoid going to the highest end of your budget. Rely on this home affordability calculator to determine what you can and should spend.
  • Once you apply, be wary of things (like major purchases) that could directly affect your credit score. Avoid opening any new accounts, such as credit or auto loans, until after your home loan closes.

3. Watch Your Credit and Pause Any New Activity

When applying for a mortgage loan, your credit will be one of the key factors in whether you’re approved, and it will help determine your interest rate and possibly the loan terms. Use tools to pause/freeze your credit and keep a close eye on it throughout the entire home buying process. Remember, your dream of becoming a homeowner is near, you can do it!

If you have more questions, give me a call and we can set up a meeting to discuss this important decision further!

This is one of my all time favorite photos at closing! 
Contact me for a list of local lenders that can help you sort out your finances and get you approved so that when the house of your dreams becomes available, you are ready to go!