7 Tips for Millennials Buying Their First Home

Buying your first home is one of the most exciting--and scariest--things you'll ever do. When you consider all of the steps involved from saving for a down payment to closing day, it's no wonder most people find home buying intimidating.  The good news is, it doesn't have to be!

With a little bit of knowledge and preparation, you can be ready to make the jump into home ownership in no time. Here are some of the best tips to help you get started. 

1. Set Up a Separate Savings Account
   It seems like there's always something waiting to take a bite out of your paycheck. If you want to save up for a home, you'll have to make it a priority. Set up a separate savings account exclusively to cover the costs of buying a house and schedule regular deposits every payday.
2. Take Good Care of Your Credit
   Your credit plays a significant role in your ability to finance a home, so start taking steps immediately to get it in the best shape possible. Check your credit score and review the report for accuracy. Make sure you pay all of your bills on time and pay down high balances if possible. As soon as you start thinking about buying a house avoid opening new credit accounts as this can negatively impact your credit score.
3. Understand All of the Costs Involved
   When you're serious about buying a house, one of the most critical steps is deciding how much you can afford to pay. Make sure you include all of the potential costs. This includes items like taxes and insurance, closing costs, homeowner's association fees, and ongoing maintenance expenses.
4. Shop Around for the Best Mortgage Offer
   Research the current mortgage rates and check with a few lenders to make sure you get the best deal. In addition to wanting a great rate, you'll also need to be on the lookout for other fees. This includes closing costs, loan origination fees, and pre-payment penalties. Make sure you add up the total costs before you make your final decision.
5. Research the Neighborhood Before You Buy
   Remember what seems like the perfect home may not be, especially if it's in a less-than-perfect location. Before buying a house, research the neighborhood you're considering and make sure it has the features you want. This may include things like access to good schools, proximity to shopping and dining options, and a short commute to your job. Also check online for crime safety reports and walk around the neighborhood to make sure it feels safe. 
6. Understand Your Home Inspection
   Never consider buying a house until you know its true condition. Plan to attend your property inspection so you can see first-hand anything that comes up during the process.  You'll also want to understand what the inspection does and doesn't cover. For example, many inspections don't include looking for evidence of mold, radon, or pest activity. Before committing to purchase a home, review the inspection report and make sure there are no major red flags.
7. Hire a Good Real Estate Agent
   It's true that the home-buying process can be complex, but you don't have to go it alone. Hiring a great real estate agent means you'll have someone on your side every step of the way. From vetting potential homes to negotiating contracts and more, a real estate professional can give you the expert advice you need. 

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