This is the second post in a blog series on the process of home buying in Northern Virginia. In Part 1, we discussed some good first steps to take as you start to explore communities you are interested in. As you continue your exploration phase, feel free to reach out to me with more specifics like price range, number of beds and baths, minimum square footage, etc. so that I can do some research for you on my end.
The Early Phases of the Process of Home Buying – Speaking With a Lender
Another thing that is good to do in this early phase of the process of home buying is to speak with a lender. This will give you an idea of not only the loan amount you can qualify for, but also the amount you feel comfortable with. You may already know of a lender, but if you need a recommendation, I’d be happy to put you in touch with a lender I work with a lot. He’s an honest guy who is very “no pressure” and is always happy to answer questions regardless of whether or not you end up using him for a loan.
Difference Between This Home Search Website and Others
C) My website is connected in real time to the Northern Virginia MLS, so every listing you find on my site is currently for sale. This is important, because some websites aren’t very reliable when it comes to having the most up-to-date information. For instance, Zillow gets all of their active listings from the multiple listing service, but they often aren’t updated in real time like the MLS is, so properties that have already been withdrawn, sold, or gone under contract will often appear as still being on the market. I'll often get emails from clients about a certain listing that they found on Zillow that has actually been under contract for several weeks. Also, I wouldn’t pay too much attention to the Zillow Zestimate, as it’s often very inaccurate.
Check out my blog post on how closings factor into the process of home buying.
Are you looking for properties you can buy for no money down? Considering the amount of your down payment is a key early step in the process of home buying. Email me at DarrenRobertsonHomes@gmail.com for more information about new zero money down conventional loans that just became available this year!