Where do you start when buying your first home?

We can help with first time home buyers because our agents have the skills and expert knowledge to help explain all the sometimes confussing jargon and process of buying a home.

The first step you will want to do when thinking about purchasing Olympia real estate is get in touch with a lender. You might think this would not be the first step, but it is a great way to figure out your finances and set goals if you are not quite ready to purchase yet.

When you buy your first home, making monthly payments probably won't be a problem. After all, you're already paying rent to your landlord each month. It's coming up with the lump sum needed for a down-payment that may seem impossible. Fortunately, there are options to make buying your first home a happy reality. (Get your credit in check from my Kirkland WA real estate affiliate's article.)

Programs for first-time buyers. There are several local or federal government programs that help first time buyers get into the housing market. Ask us about these options.

Private contracts. Look for a seller to help you buy and finance your home. Some sellers are willing to carry the contract themselves and will waive the down payment. You may only have to pay the monthly mortgage installments.

Plus, mortgage lenders and banks can offer loans and programs for first timers and it pays to shop around.

ONCE YOU HAVE YOUR FINANCES IN ORDER

Now you will need to have your lender write up a pre-approval letter. This states that you are indeed ready and able to purchase a house for a set amount. Sellers like to see these letters so they know you are a serious buyer.

Then you are ready to view home. Contact one of our agents to start viewing homes around the Olympia real estate region. We cover all over Thurston and Pierce county and probably have an agent that works just in the area you want to live in!

Stay organized by making a list of the things you really want, the things you don't want and those you can live with or without. This will make your choice much easier. Plus right now is an excellent time to buy as there is so much inventory you are sure to find the right house at a great price. (Learn more about using a buyer's agent here with my La Grande OR real estate connection)

Although sellers can't go too low, you are bound to find a deal out there right now. Just keep your contigencies to a minimum and be sure to watch what you ask for in an inspection: you can ask for everything and get nothing... so just ask for the main safety features and you should be ok. My Fairbanks real estate affiliate has a great article on home inspections.

For more info on first time home-buyers check out my Great Falls real estate connection in Montana. Their detailed articles will help any buyer out.