Tips for First-Time Home Buyers

Buying a new home is always an exciting, yet nerve-wracking time in anyone’s life, especially if you are a first-time home buyer with little to no experience. With so many options presented before you, you might be wondering where to even begin. That’s where our team of experienced real estate agents at Zephyr Real Estate comes in.

Below are just a few tips we have for first-time home buyers in the greater San Francisco and Pacific Heights, CA areas.

Determine Your Budget

Before you fall in love with a beautiful house, you should be sure to consider what type of budget you’re looking to stick with. Tools like Mortgage Calculator or Rent vs. Own Calculator can be helpful to see what price range you can afford. Don’t forget to factor in monthly housing costs, homeowners’ insurance, closing costs, and other expenses that are easy to forget about.

Start Saving As Soon As Possible

It’s no secret that owning a home is much more expensive than renting, even if your monthly payments remain close to the same amount. As a homeowner, you’ll be responsible for maintenance and upkeep costs, which can certainly add up fast. Not to mention the costs of purchasing your home in the first place. That’s why we generally recommend you start saving as soon as you can, if possible, especially for your primary down payment on the house. Keep in mind that even a small down payment can still be hefty, but it is common to put about 20% down initially.

Choose the Right Type of House & Neighborhood

Considering details such as family size (both in the present and in the future), how long you plan to live in your new home, and local factors like proximity to school districts will play a key role in the home- buying process. While plans can certainly change down the line, it will help narrow down what you are currently looking for.

Enlist the Help of a Trusted Real Estate Agent

Your first home is a big purchase – perhaps the biggest purchase you’ll have made up until this point in your life, which is exactly why you shouldn’t trust just anyone with this responsibility. Not only are our agents at Gullicksen Group well-acquainted with the Pacific Heights and San Francisco, CA areas, but we also provide immense value by giving our clients our time, attention, and years of expertise. Buying your first home can certainly be intimidating, but we’re here to help! We are proud to be regarded as the number one team of real estate agents in the area, and are dedicated to helping you through the entire home buying process from start to finish. Contact us today to get started!