First Time Home Buyers

Buying a home is one of the largest and most important financial commitments you'll make in your lifetime. We know it's especially critical for first-time buyers to make informed decisions about this investment.

We've successfully helped first-time homebuyers make their dreams come true and have developed a checklist from our experience to help make the process a little easier. Of course, if you have additional questions or concerns, don't hesitate to
ask your Joseph Dodge Real Estate consultant for advice.

Check Your Credit Rating
Mortgage approval is a critical and very easy
process. You can be approved with just one phone call. As an interested buyer, if you have a pre-approval for a mortgage in hand, it strengthens your position during negotiations with a seller. This is particularly important in the Southern California,
which is a highly competitive, fast-moving marketplace.

Investigate the Neighborhood
Where are the schools and places of worship? How far is the nearest hospital or grocery store? Is commercial garbage collection or recycling pick-up available, or will you be responsible for disposal of your own trash? These are basic, yet very important questions that you will want to explore before you close on your new home.

Be an Informed Buyer
Some neighborhoods have deed restrictions such as exterior maintenance, lawn care or fencing. All too often, buyers are unaware of these restrictions and how they apply to their property until it's too late. Ask your REALTOR® to tell you about any restrictions that may be in place in neighborhoods where you would like to live.

Insist on a Home Inspection
Attend all property inspections, be aware of any environmental concerns and don't be shy about asking questions. A small investment of time and money will save you a lot of headaches down the road.

Look for a Property with a Home Warranty
A comprehensive insured Home Warranty benefits and protects both homebuyers and sellers by decreasing the likelihood of a sale falling through due to unexpected surprises. This Home Warranty is a special kind of insurance that covers the cost of repairing or replacing appliances and mechanical systems in a house. For a modest fee, paid either by the buyer or seller.

Don't Rush!
We know you're excited about the idea of moving into your new home. You may even be worried about future hikes in interest rates and feel pressure to move quickly. But, don't hurry the decision-making process and overlook property flaws. Purchasing a home is an important investment. You need to thoroughly think through the process and do your homework to avoid making choices or snap decisions you will regret in the future.

California Buyer's Reward Program

Are you working with a Southern California Real Estate Agent?

If not, we would be happy to represent you! Please contact us today and find out about our Buyer's Reward Program.

Your Exclusive Buyer's Agent

For more First Time Home Buying Tips, please contact Joseph Dodge today. As your Southern California real estate broker, you can be assured that we will always look out for your best interests. Please call or email today, and we'll be happy to assist you throughout your real estate transaction.