Are you thinking about buying your first home? Here are 8 common first-time buyer mistakes to avoid.

Mistake #1: Not Getting Pre-Qualified

Pre-qualifications are important because they give you an idea as to how much home you can afford. During this process, a lender will examine your income, debt, credit and assets and give you a rough estimate as to how much they’d be willing to lend you. From here, you’ll know what you need for a down payment and what you can expect to pay for a monthly mortgage loan.

Mistake #2: Not Checking Into First-Time Buyer Programs

The Government of Canada offers several incentives for first-time homebuyers in the form of down payment help, tax credits and more. These include: 

·        First-Time Home Buyer…

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How Do I Know If I’m Ready to Buy My First Home?  

While the “right” time to buy will vary based on your unique circumstances, here are a few signs you might be ready:

  1. Your credit is in good standing (more on that below) 
  2. How have a stable job 
  3. You’re planning on staying put 
  4. You’ve saved a down payment 
  5. You can afford monthly mortgage payments (as well as current debt payments, taxes, bills etc.) 
  6. You can afford maintenance and upkeep 
  7. You’ll still have money left over after you buy

Will My Credit Score Impact My Ability to Buy?  

Your credit score is one of the first things a lender will look at when deciding to qualify you for a mortgage. This is because your credit history is a clear indication as to whether you…

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Is it really possible to buy a home in Edmonton AND save money at the same time? With the right information, you bet it is. Here are a few key strategies to help you buy your dream home without breaking the bank.

Work With an Edmonton REALTOR® 

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve had tons of real estate experience, partnering with a qualified Edmonton REALTOR® WILL save you money (potentially thousands)! Navigating current market conditions, assessing a home’s true value and expert negotiation skills are just a few of the many ways your agent will help you save on your dream home. 

Establish Your Wants Vs. Your NEEDS 

Viewing homes without understanding your wants and needs is a lot like visiting the grocery store with no grocery…

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