Home purchasing: A beginners guide to finding your dream home

by John Colby 02/28/2024

How to start your dream home purchasing journey   featured image

Purchasing a home is a big commitment that can positively impact you and your household for years to come. Going into the home purchasing process with the right game plan can help you navigate your search and find the home of your dreams.

Ready to get started? Great! Let’s go.

Examine your needs 

First, examine what you want and need from your next home purchase. For example, you may want to make sure your next property has enough space to accommodate your household’s hobbies. Do you need a workshop for your 3D print area? Maybe you just need a storage room to store odds and ends, so repurposing a closet or half of a room would do. 

You may also want to consider the location of the potential home you may be interested in and your plans for the near future before making a purchase. If you have kids in your household, it may be beneficial for the home to be in proximity to a good school system. 

Get pre-approved for a home loan

Getting a pre-approval letter puts power in your hand as a potential homebuyer. This letter signifies your financial background has been checked out by a lender, and they’ve deemed you a good candidate for their loan. 

This letter gives you the opportunity to negotiate with home sellers because with it, it demonstrates you’re a serious homebuying prospect. 

Collaborate with a real estate agent

Hiring a real estate agent is worth the extra expense during the homebuying process. Agents bring knowledge of the local real estate market and can help you identify areas with homes meeting your needs - especially if you’re on the fence about where to start. 

They can provide MLS access, guide you through the paperwork needed in the process and negotiate on your behalf to ensure you get the best deal for your purchase. 


About the Author
Author

John Colby

I have lived in the Athol-Orange-Phillipston  area for most of my life. I graduated from the Athol-Royalston Schools and Boston College in 1973.  I have been an active real estate  Broker since 1973.. I have First hand knowledge of all the various aspects of working and living in our area.
For over 40 years I have  maintained a presence in the real estate market through building new homes while buying and selling all types of real estate. I offer first hand knowledge and experience to Buyers and Sellers in our unique market area . I also have a keen interest in Waterfront properties, land and income properties. We are also currently focused on bringing new businesses into our area including  Commercial , Mixed Use and Retail Development along the Rt 2 corridor including into the North Quabbin Business Park and the Greater Gardner to Athol-Orange areas.
   I will to give you the benefit of my training and experience and the most personal service and attention that you deserve.