Buying a house is fun and exciting, especially if it’s your first time. The thrill of finally having your dream home, however, doesn’t always last long. Once you realize that buying a property goes beyond finding a pretty house, then it can be a daunting task.

To help make things easier for first-time homebuyers, we have prepared a guide to finding the perfect property:

Find a Realtor

Working with real estate agents gives you access to a range of properties for sale. Whether you’re looking for a freestanding house, an apartment, or a duplex, realtors can find houses that meet your requirements. Furthermore, they can help you look for a mortgage loan company.

Set a Budget

One of the best ways to narrow down your options is to set a budget. Having a realistic price range also helps you determine if you can afford to pay for your house until the end of your mortgage contract. A lender can tell you how much loan you can pre-qualify for, which can help you decide how much you’re willing to spend for your new home.

Visit Open Houses

Once you have a list of properties you’re interested in, start visiting open houses or have your realtor call the seller to schedule a home visit. To save time, gas, and effort, it is best to group properties by area. Allot a day for each area, so you’re not going from neighborhood to neighborhood to check properties.

Compare rates for Mortgage Loans

When it comes to home mortgage loans, remember that the first offer isn’t always the best one. Compare rates and additional expenses, such as legal fees, closing costs, and taxes.  

Get a Home Warranty

Home warranties can protect you from unforeseen costs should systems and components in your new home fail. Many of these plans are effective for 12 months from the closing date.   

Shopping for a home can be a rewarding experience. Turn your dream home into a reality by working with a reliable realtor and lender. City Bank Mortgage offers a range of loan programs for all types of homebuyers. Our friendly loan officers can walk you through the process and help you understand everything you need to know about mortgages. Pay us a visit at any of our offices convenient to you: Abilene, Arlington, Beaumont, College Station, Dallas, El Paso, Forney, Lubbock, Plano, and Southlake, or you can get in touch with us for more information on our services.