1. Know yourself
The single most important step to purchasing your North Idaho dream home is to determine exactly what you’re looking for. Get to know yourself and get to know your family. Make a list of your home wants and needs. Determine what you absolutely have to have in a home and on which points you are willing to compromise. Define your goals in writing.
2. Location, location, location
Select a location conducive to your lifestyle and your intended future lifestyle. Select a location convenient for your entire family. Don’t discount seemingly minor inconveniences as they could become major problems down the road.
3. Enlist a professional to help
Hope Realty knows not all dream homes are found in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). For more than 30 years our agents have networked to make strong connections with people. We often become aware of homes for sale before they even officially hit the market. A buyer’s agent will represent your best interests and you don’t have to pay a dime! Your seller is most likely to have a professional representative and so should you. Choose a Realtor® who is intimately familiar with North Idaho. Hope Realty has solid connections with willing sellers, bankers, inspectors, appraisers, insurance agents and of course other Realtors®. Your expert should have an experienced grasp of market conditions, the market’s history and its projected future.
4. Buying a home is a big step
Read the fine print on any formal document you are asked to sign. Your Hope Realty buyer’s agent can explain terms you have trouble understanding and clear up any questions you may have about your real estate purchasing contract.
5. Understand the market
Research the history of the real estate market in your chosen area before you buy. Understand exactly where the market is when you make your move and thoroughly research market predictions. Hope Realty can give you an analysis of the market and help you decide on a fair price for your dream home based on all of the available variables.
6. Talk to existing residents
Before you move to an unfamiliar neighborhood, take time to talk to the residents who already live there. Ask them what they like about the area, their home, their neighbors, area amenities and anything else you deem important.
7. Examine local zoning laws
Find out what the city has planned for the area surrounding your dream home. Be wary of development plans that could impact the value of your North Idaho real estate or change your aesthetic view.
8. Consider the cost of renovation and keep your plans on the down-low
It’s okay to want to take your property and make it your own. Be sure to realistically consider the costs of your planned renovations and be sure they are in line with local building ordinances. Try not to discuss your plans too much with the current owner as you risk offending someone who has poured heart and soul into what once was their dream home.
9. Research the cost and availability of insurance
Ask your Hope Realty agent to help you research factors that could impact the cost of homeowner’s insurance. Hope Realty can help you find a fair and honest insurance agent.
10. Be patient and learn to play the game
Searching for your dream can be a stressful, but an extremely rewarding process. Make your real estate desires well known to your Hope Realty agent and trust his or her experienced judgment.
