House hunting tips can help buyers navigate one of the most important and complicated purchases of their lives. This Redfin real estate article outlines practical steps that every buyer should follow, from budgeting and tour homes to inspections and closures. Whether you’re looking at homes for sale in San Francisco or looking at tour houses in Portland, knowing what to prioritize can help you make smarter decisions and avoid common pitfalls. These house hunting tips are designed to be search-focused, realistic and ultimately successful.
1. Decide on a realistic budget
It is important to define your budget before you start scrolling through listings or scheduling tours. This isn’t just something that lenders approve. It’s about what fits comfortably in your financial life.
down payment
The amount required for a down payment will vary depending on the type of loan. A 20% down helps avoid mortgage insurance, but many buyers are less, especially with FHA or traditional loans. Remember: A lower down payment usually means a higher monthly payment.
Closure costs
In addition to the down payment, we plan for closing costs, typically ranging from 2% to 5% of the purchase price. These include lender fees, title insurance and valuation fees. Having this cash on hand is essential to completing the sale.
Monthly payment
Think beyond the mortgage itself. Monthly payments include property taxes, homeowner insurance and, in some cases, HOA fees. Make sure you estimate these totals to make sure you don’t grow your finances too thin.
2. Define the contract early
It’s easy to fall in love with a stylish kitchen or a spacious backyard, but not all features are essential. One of the most valuable home hunting tips is to learn to separate your needs from your desires early in the process.
Keep your focus using the Redfin Real Estate House Hunting Checklist. For example, you may need two bathrooms, but open floor plans may be your preference rather than breaking your contract. Be prepared to define what is most important to your daily life and long-term goals and compromise on the rest.
3. Decide where you want to live
One of the most important house hunting tips is to be thoughtful about the location. The neighborhood you choose will affect your daily life more than you would expect, from your commute and nearby amenities to safety and community atmosphere. When investigating a potential neighborhood, consider the following:
Access to public transport to nearby schools Local Services Future Development Plan Urban or Suburban
Visiting the neighborhood at various points can reveal how living there really feels. This step will help you not only buy a home, but also call your home to ensure you are willing to invest.
4. Choose the right real estate agent
A knowledgeable real estate agent can make the difference between a smooth buying process and annoying process. Ask friends and family for referrals, or ask research agents with strong experience in the target area.
Listen, communicate clearly, and find someone to advocate for your interests. A good agent will help you discover potential problems, understand the local market and guide you through negotiation.
5. Learn the process before diving in
Even if this is not your first purchase, there is much to learn. Explore educational resources like Redfin’s first HomeBuyer Guide. This categorizes every step in the process, from pre-approval to creating an offer.
These tools can answer questions you didn’t even know to ask – how to compare contingencies and loan options you should include in your offer.
6. Be approved in advance
Securing pre-approval for a mortgage early on your home hunting journey is one of the clever steps you can take. Pre-approval shows sellers that you are already a serious buyer raising funds, giving you advantages in a competitive market. It also gives you a clear idea of how much you can afford, allowing you to focus your search on homes that are within your budget.
Shop with multiple lenders to compare rates and terminology before committing. Please note that pre-approval is not a guarantee. It is based on your current financial situation, so avoid major financial changes until after the closure.
7. I know what you’re buying
Before making an offer, gather as much detailed information as possible about your home. Ask the real estate agent for written records of the age of the property, past renovations, damages and repairs. The more you understand the condition and history of your home, the better you will be equipped to make informed decisions.
Don’t hesitate to dig deeper. Many counties and local governments provide property history databases that reveal past ownership, permits and other important details. Redfin real estate agents should be a guide to help you uncover this information and weigh potential risks and red flags.
8. Get tested and find out about repair restrictions
A thorough home inspection is essential to uncover hidden issues before you buy. It can reveal any foundation, roof, plumbing, or electrical system issues that may not be visible during a casual walkthrough. Some repairs are manageable or cosmetic, but it is important to be realistic about what you can financially and actually deal with. Don’t overestimate your ability to take on major modifications.
If the inspection reveals a costly repair, consider it in your decision or negotiation. Real estate agents will help you understand the inspection report and advise which issues are breaking the transaction and which issues can be addressed after they move.
9. Do not make any changes in a hurry
It’s easy to feel like you need to fix everything as soon as you move around, but patience can save you time and money. Take your time to live in the space and understand how it actually works before you begin any renovations or upgrades.
Getting the feel of the home can eliminate the need for some changes, which can add rushing and costly mistakes and stress. Don’t forget that home is a long-term project. You can gradually improve and prioritize what is truly important to your lifestyle.
