Although the average buyer’s home search takes12 weeks, many buyers begin preparing for the process well in advance, especially first-time buyers.* They prepare by saving for a down payment, paying down or paying off debt and exploring potential neighborhoods to live in. If you know you want to buy a home someday, here are the steps to take now so you’re prepared when you decide to buy.

1. BUILD A SOLID CREDIT HISTORY. 
   Maintain existing lines of credit.
   Reduce existing debt.
   Be smart about opening new lines of credit.
   Look through your credit history once a year to make sure all of the information is correct.
2. SAVE FOR A DOWN PAYMENT
   Put money aside every payday and save any windfalls you receive, such as tax returns and inheritances.
3. INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF MONEY IN YOUR SAVINGS ACCOUNT
   Building up your savings will not only put you in a better position with lenders– who may want to be sure you’re not living paycheck to paycheck–it’ll also ensure you have the funds to cover home improvements or any unexpected repairs that arise.
4. THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU MIGHT WANT IN A HOME
   What does it look like? What features does it have? Where is it? Write it down. Knowing what you want will help you find the right home when you’re ready to buy. 

If you’re ready to buy a home, give me a call! I’d love to answer your questions, talk to you about our local market and help you find the home of your dreams.

*Source: National Association of REALTORS, 2015 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers
Information source Buffini and Co.

Image courtesy of nenetus at FreeDigitalPhotos.net