Are you planning to buy a home this spring? Though things are more balanced than they were at the height of the pandemic, its still a sellers market. So, when you find the home you want to buy, remember these fourtipsto make your best offer.
1.Lean on a Seven Gables Real Estate Professional
Rely on an agent who can support your goals. AsBankratenotes:
. . . select the best real estate agent for your needs. They will be a critical part of your home buying process.
Agents are local market experts. They know whats worked for other buyers in your area and what sellers may be looking for in an offer. It may seem simple, but catering to what a seller needs can help your offer stand out.
2.Know Your Budget
Understanding yourbudgetis especially important right now. As Sandy Higgins, Senior Wealth Advisor atCapstone Financial Advisors,putsit:
Understand your current budget what are your expenses, hows your spending, would you need to make changes?
The best way to understand yournumbersis to work with a lender so you can get pre-approved for a loan. It helps you be more financially confident, and it shows sellers youre serious. That can give you a competitive edge.
3.Think Through Everything Before Making an Offer
Todays market isnt moving at the record pace it did during the pandemic. That means you may have a bit more time to think before you need to make an offer. According to Danielle Hale, Chief Economist atrealtor.com:
In general, you likely have more time to make an offer, although thats certainly not a guarantee. If youre on the fence about a home or its asking price doesnt quite fit your budget, you might want to keep an eye on it, and if it doesnt sell right away, you may have some room to negotiate with the seller.
While its still important to stay on top of the market and be prepared to move quickly, there can be more flexibility today. Lean on the advice of your agent as you explore the options in your market.
4. Work with Your Seven Gables Advisor To Negotiate
During the pandemic, some buyers skipped home inspections or didnt ask for concessions from the seller in order to submit the winning bid on a home. Fortunately, todays market is different, and you may have more negotiating power than before. When putting together an offer, your trusted real estate advisor will help you think through what levers to pull.
Bottom Line
When you buy a home this spring, connect with a Seven Gables Advisor so you have the guidance to make your best offer.
