Previous Story
Looking for a Home? How to Find One That Works for You
House hunting can be one of the most exciting and frustrating things you may ever do. If you’re in a rush to buy a home because of a job transfer or cross-country retirement, you might not have the luxury of time. Even if time is on your side, here are some tips for finding the home that you want and need.
Post on Social Media
Use your Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms to let trusted connections know about your home search. Indicate the desired location, price range, and specific features required, such as number of bedrooms, home office, and property size. People might know of someone in your search area who is planning to sell a home and can refer you to the property agent or upcoming listing. Word of mouth is one of the most effective ways to share news.
Ask Friends, Neighbors, and Coworkers
Send a brief email to your closest contacts to let them know about your house quest. These people might be different from those you are connected to on social media, but you can share the same details so that they can respond if they know of a property like the one you are looking for. They can also tell others to help you cast a wider net in areas where you would like to own your next home.
Search the Real Estate Listings
Browse homes for sale in local real estate listings. Search online sources like Realtor.com and Zillow. You can also get details on a property of interest when you drive around the area and see a for-sale sign in the yard of homes that look promising. Check the listings every few days as new homes are frequently added. Review details like the school rating if you have children and crime statistics if available. Compare properties to see which ones are selling in your target price range.
Contact a Realty Agent
For help in finding the right home, contact a residential real estate agent who can answer questions and provide information about available properties. Licensed realtors can guide you to valuable information, such as whether the home was the site of a crime or if a drug operation was located there. Information about previous repairs, estimated utility bills, and needed repairs can help you narrow the search for the type of home you are willing to consider.
Reach out to people you know for help in finding homes for sale that might be what you are looking for. Work with a real estate agent to get the best deal on the property you want.
