2018, expected to reach 5 percent toward the latter half of
the year. In addition, new tax laws that went into effect at the
beginning of the year have new limitations. Be sure to look
into mortgage interest deduction and other tax deduction
limits that may affect your taxes for 2018.
3. Agent.
Having a real estate agent in your corner for a first-time
purchase is key. Agents will not only help you navigate the
home-buying process, but can also be a valuable resource
for an inside look at new homes that go on the market. This
gives buyers the opportunity to view homes that may not
have made it onto real estate websites for public viewing.
4. Location.
THE
PATIO IS
OPEN
Your dream house may not be in your dream location,
and your dream location may not have your dream house.
Don’t get stuck in a rut if you’re not seeing everything you
want in your price range. Typically, you’ll need to make
some compromises with your first home. Keep a few non-
negotiables in your back pocket, but otherwise be open to
the idea of putting some of your own upgrades and changes
into a home that may not have everything on your wish list.
5. Home.
Don’t get stuck in the mindset that you should spend every
dollar that you qualify for in your mortgage. This could
lead to bigger problems down the road. Look in the market
under your max budget and be creative when looking at
homes for ways to make improvements or changes that
better fit your needs. A little bit of sweat equity can go a long
way and will give the home your own personal touch.
6. Offer.
Once you’ve found a house you want to call “home,”
work with your real estate agent to come up with an offer
the seller can’t refuse. Whether the house needs some
improvements or it’s a hot buy on the market, your agent can
guide you into making a serious offer to the seller. If you’re
feeling passionate about the home, write the seller a letter
explaining why you’re the best buyer for the home. These
touches can sometimes be the difference between getting
the house of your dreams, or losing it to another buyer.
7. Moving.
You’ve done it! You’ve purchased your first home. Now that
you have a mortgage to pay, keep in mind some money-
saving tips, like asking your closest family and friends to help
you move! A little pizza can go a long way when looking for
some extra help. Make a plan for those personal touches
to add to your home. Test out paint colors in each room
to make sure you like the color in the daylight. Purchase
furniture after making detailed measurements (you don’t
want to come home with something that doesn’t fit!). Add
some curb appeal as a finishing touch and as a way to meet
your new neighbors! n
A current
issue
of this
magazine
is also
available
online.
Full Day 4 year old Pre-K
East Catholic is the school of
tomorrow where knowledge
meets faith and timeless
values and learning begins…
Registration for the 2018-19
school year is now being
accepted for Pre-K to 8
icmags.com
PENN HILLS
❘
SUMMER 2018
27