Deciding to take the leap and buy a home in Naples, Florida, is exciting and perhaps a bit daunting. Regardless of whether you are already local to Naples, or are permanently moving to the area, or purchasing a second home, there are a few things to consider before buying a home in Naples, Florida. We have a few tips that will help to make the process more efficient, enjoyable, and successful.
Pre-Approval Is Key
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage has multiple benefits. A pre-approval helps you to determine your budget by providing a range of how much home you can afford, and what those mortgage payments will look like. Be clear upfront with your budget (and stick to it) so you don’t waste time falling in love with a house that isn’t financially feasible.
A pre-approval also gives you an advantage in the fast-paced real estate market—it shows the seller that you are a serious buyer and having it will give you an advantage in the case that there are multiple offers on the house.
The Right Real Estate Agent is An Invaluable Resource
Everyone becomes a real estate expert (or thinks that they are!) when house hunting, but keep in mind that your real estate agent is just an actual expert. Use the knowledge and resources that they provide.
Your agent will know what is on the market, or what is coming soon; which homes meet your criteria and which do not. Your agent can get you property details and asking price information, as well as comparables for real estate transactions in the Naples neighborhood in which you are looking. Your home purchase is likely the largest single investment you will make, so you want it to be founded on accurate information and wise advice.
There’s a Difference Between ‘Must-Have’ and ‘Want’
While it is important to keep an open mind during the house-hunting process, it is just as important to know which details you are not willing to budge on. You’ve already decided to buy a home in Naples, Florida so the location is non-negotiable. But consider other home details and features and identify which of those are a must-have for your family and lifestyle and which would just be nice to have. Among the things to consider are:
- Number of bedrooms
- Square footage
- Layout and design
- Outdoor space
- Pool
- Garages
- Community amenities, schools, and proximity to work or family
- Property taxes and potential HOAs
An open house or showing on a house is your opportunity to learn as much as you can about the house—so take advantage of it! Take your time and don’t get distracted by fancy new features or fabulously done decor. Rather, focus on the “nuts and bolts” of the house by opening closets and cabinets, checking out the home’s heating and cooling systems and roof, and looking at the overall quality of the house and its features.
There’s No Such Thing as a Perfect Home
Prepare yourself now that you likely will not find the perfect size house, in the perfect neighborhood, with every amenity that you are looking for in your dream home. Certainly don’t settle for something that you don’t like or doesn’t meet your needs, but understand you will probably never find “the perfect house”. You’ve already determined what you are not willing to budge on, now be reasonable about the rest … and know that the ugly wallpaper can easily be replaced.
Whether looking for your first home in Naples, Florida, or a new vacation home, taking time to consider these tips in advance will help to keep you on track and focused on your final goal – buying your new home in Naples!
Contact Venture Title Services today to help you prepare to close on the purchase of your home in Florida.