Forgetting Something? Here's What Buyers Always Forget

We get it, buying a home is complicated. No other purchase requires buyers to juggle so many moving parts at once. In fact, with the amount of energy and time required, buying a home can feel like a full-time job. It's no wonder it's so easy to forget about important items during the process.

However, forgetting details can actually make the entire experience harder for you. It's important to try to stay as organized as possible from the moment you start your shopping process through closing. To help, we compiled a quick list of items home buyers frequently forget to consider when purchasing a home:

1. Resale Value
   When buying a home in a hot market, you may need to make a sacrifice or two. However, resale value should not be one of them.  The average consumer stays in a home for about 7 to 10 years, so when it comes time to sell, you want to make sure you're positioned to make a profit. Location is one of the most important factors when it comes to resale value, so be sure to keep neighborhood quality and school district top of mind while shopping.
   
   
2. The Home Inspection Contingency
   A home inspection contingency protects you in the event the home inspection uncovers some costly issues. This is especially important for first-time homebuyers. You don't want to get stuck with a money pit that you can't afford to fix. Don't forget to make sure this is included in your offer. If your offer is accepted, temper your expectations until after the home inspection. You never know what might turn up.
   
   
3. General Homeowner Expenses
   Your down payment and closing costs are likely to take a chunk out of your savings, but it's important to have some extra cash set aside for costs after you move in. If this is your first home, remember there is no landlord around to fix problems. These repairs are going to come out of your pocket. Additionally, you may need to purchase a lawnmower or other landscaping products. We recommend saving an additional 1.5% of the home's total value for unanticipated expenses after you move in.
   
   
4. A Home Warranty
   The last thing you want is to face a costly upgrade, such as a roof replacement or hot water tank replacement, shortly after moving in. A home warranty is a great way to protect yourself from this potential scenario. Home warranties can cover a wide range of appliances and internal systems. Be sure to seek out a home warranty within one month of closing to get the best rates and terms.
   
   
5. Staying Calm
   Buying a home can be both stressful and emotional. You may fall in love with a home only to have your offer rejected. You may purchase a home and immediately face unexpected repair costs. In either scenario, you need to try to keep a cool head. Plan for the best, but prepare for the worst. Make sure to keep some extra savings on hand to deal with any problems.

Buying a home is a great way to grow your wealth and generate a return. However, it does require a significant amount of work upfront. Try to stay organized through the process and lean on your real estate agent for some extra help.

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