You’ve heard there’s no place like home, but the truth is, there’s no place like your firsthome. Think about it: you’ve just made your biggest financial (and most emotional) decision yet, you’re finally switching from renting to owning, and most importantly, you’re taking a giant step toward the rest of your life… It turns out that your first home really is the most special place in the world.
If you’re thinking of buying a new home or are about to start the process, you’ve probably read up on mortgages, compared new homes vs resale, etc. But do you know what to bring to builder meetings? How about current promotions? Some things get overshadowed by the “big points,” but at Schaeffer Family Homes, we believe the little details matter… So we put together everything you won’t find in a simple internet search:
We’re not saying that buying a home isn’t stressful, but the entire process with your first home is typically less overwhelming than with your next. Your first time buying a home, you’re probably not as concerned with getting all of the features and finishes absolutely perfect — but more so just excited and focused on owning your own space in a location that makes you happy.
Pro top: Enjoy every minute of the ride, even the lengthy parts, because it’s all worth it in the end.
Do you believe you can’t afford a home you truly love? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. But that’s why we’re here to tell you that you might be able to afford so much more than you think. In fact, you might even up paying less for your mortgage than for your current rent… in a much better space that you own.
Pro tip: You can get a preapproval even while you’re still renting! Go check out where you stand (you might be amazed).
When it comes to home ownership, there’s no better time than right now. (Guess all of those “seize the moment” quotes were right…) Of course, with interest rates at a current low point, buying your first home sooner rather than later means you can stop throwing money away (and by that, we mean renting), and start owning something that gives you so much back in return.
Pro tip: Just take the leap! You’ll be glad you did.
Of course, it’s what’s on the inside that counts, but when it comes to your first home, what’s on the outside matters a whole lot too. Your new home’s location is going to make a difference when it comes to your job and your social life, so make sure to consider convenience — how close are you to stores, restaurants, and bars? How long will it take you to get to work?
Pro tip: It’s okay to experience lifestyle changes (i.e. driving to work for the first time instead of walking), but don’t overlook the certain things you favor the most.
You might be wondering why we’re giving you childhood advice in a blog about owning a home, but hear us out. Bringing someone who knows and loves you (and who you trust) to your builder meetings will help you see things clearly. Whether a parent, a sibling, or another important figure in your life, having someone else’s opinion that you value can make a world of difference.
Pro tip: It’s always okay to sit back, take a deep breath, and consider a new perspective.
If you’ve ever been told to “ask a lot of questions,” now you finally have a good reason to. We are here to help you throughout this entire process and want to make sure that you are absolutely clear about every detail of building your new home!
Pro tip: You’re the buyer! Don’t be afraid to ask!
Last but not least, we want you to know that this whole process is going to be emotional. Your home is a big deal (thebiggestdeal, actually), so you’re going to feel a lot of different emotions. But even if you’re doubting everything you’re going through, remember that owning your first home is a feat that should make you proud.
Building your vision from the ground up is so much more than just a process. It’s one of the most special things you can do. Looking to buy your new home in South Jersey? Contact Schaeffer Family Homes at 856-208-5118 to make your first home buying process a breeze!
