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There’s nothing more exciting than closing on one’s first home. For most people, a home is the investment of a lifetime, but the road to homeownership can be a long one. According to a recent study, about 40% of first-time homebuyers said the event was the most stressful one they’d ever experienced.

There’s no instruction manual for homeownership, and searching for new homes for sale online is, to say the least, challenging. Before shopping for furnishings and putting out the welcome mat, follow this first-time buyer’s checklist for those considering a move to a new home development like Millstone Landing in Hardeeville, SC.

Make a Budget

Many potential buyers take the time to figure out what they can afford, but their agents convince them to see properties that are just a bit outside their budget. Falling in love with a home that one can’t afford will only lead to heartbreak. Protect emotions and the wallet by checking with a lender to get prequalified to know one’s limits and learn which loans are available, as well as shopping under budget, and working out the monthly payment with a mortgage calculator. Don’t forget to factor in other expenses, such as home maintenance and repairs, HOA fees, taxes, and insurance.

Stay Open-Minded

Any buyer who is looking for the perfect home on a budget may prefer a resale over new construction, but be advised not to hope for a home that’s in perfect shape. In fact, many resale properties in the desired price range may look worn on the outside. For instance, if someone is reviewing listings online and find one with unappealing photos, but it’s in a great area, don’t toss it aside right away. Even if a home seems to be past its prime, a few minor upgrades can make a big difference.

Learn About the Area

Finding a seemingly perfect home and imagining oneself in it, is very common. Before letting one’s imagination take over, though, location is key and it’s important to learn more about the area. To avoid unpleasant surprises, look for:

• The potential for further development

• Availability of public transport (if one prefer to live in a more urban setting)

• The quality of the area’s schools

• Closeness to shopping, entertainment, and work

• Property tax rates

By researching these factors when looking for a new home, and by visiting the area at varying times of the day, the buyer gets a better feel for it.

Why Building a Home is Better For First-Time Buyers

• Pick out a modern floor plan

As a first-time homebuyer, having a new home built has its advantages. One can pick out an updated floor plan. Instead of being stuck with an outdated layout that one may need to spend money on later down the road to remodel, the new homeowner can walk into the new home ready to decorate and settle in.

• Chances are one will experience lower maintenance costs

Another advantage of having a home built with Landmark 24 Homes in Hardeeville, SC is lower upfront maintenance costs. Having new everything definitely has its advantages when adjusting to owning a home. Maintenance needs will come up, that is just part of owning a home. However, with a new build home the frequency and the number of maintenance needs will occur at a pace, a new homeowner will be able to adjust to overtime. 

• The potential to personalize the home before it’s built

Everyone likes to put a personal touch on their home. Having a home built has the distinct advantage of personalizing from a clean slate. Thus, no need to work around the previous homeowners’ aesthetic.

• The home will likely be more energy efficient than an older home.

New home builds also present the first-time homebuyer with the advantage of integrating modern technologies, Such as new HVAC systems which are more energy-efficient and quieter than the ones found in older homes. This advantage provides the new homeowner an opportunity to start saving money out the gate on their utility bills 

Don’t Give Up Hope

Shopping for a first home is like looking for love—there are peaks, valleys, and obstacles to work around. Even if there’s the occasional disappointment, there will always be more options to consider. By following these tips, and by not getting one’s hopes up before closing the deal, buyers are more likely to end up in homes that meet their needs and fit their budgets.

Media Contact
Company Name: Landmark 24 Realty, Inc.
Contact Person: Media Relations
Email: Send Email
Phone: (912) 353-1275
Address:6605 Abercorn St #100
City: Savannah
State: GA
Country: United States
Website: landmark24.com/