www.hbaswil.org GUIDE TO BUYING A HOME If you are thinking of buying a new home, you must pay close attention to many details to ensure that you fi nd one that will suit your needs and preferences. Before you start shopping, you should sit down with the members of your household to discuss your preferences and the many options available to you. Here are some things you should consider: STEP 1: FINANCING YOUR HOME The fi rst step in the home buying process is determining how much you can aff ord. To ensure that the fi nancing process goes smoothly, buyers should consider pre-qualifying for a mortgage and having a fi nancing commitment in place before shopping for a new home. STEP 2: PRIORITIZING MOST-WANTED FEATURES Before you start shopping, you should sit down with the members of your household to discuss your preferences and the many options available to you. An easy way to organize your thoughts is to write each separate feature that you want on a 3X5 card, and arrange the cards in order of their importance to you. For instance, if you like to cook, you may want a home with a large, wellequipped kitchen. Or you may settle for a small kitchen, so that you can have extra space for a library, offi ce or playroom. Some home buyers seek large, open interior spaces, while others prefer traditional rooms that aff ord more privacy. While looking for a home, consider whether your needs are likely to change over time. If you plan to add rooms, fi nd out if there is enough space on your site for such expansion and whether such additions are permitted by your local jurisdiction. STEP 3: SELECTING THE TYPE OF HOME With a single-family home in a development, you’ll be responsible for your own yard and home, but may be restricted to certain design elements or other regulations if there is a home owners association. STEP 4: STARTING YOUR HOUSE HUNT Now that you know the type of home and features you are looking for, and how much home you can aff ord, you’re ready to begin searching for your perfect home. Whether you use a realtor to fi nd an existing home or work with a builder to buy a new home, you’ll be more focused with your search. Contact your local Home Builders Association for additional resources to help you navigate the home-buying process. It’s not just a house, it’s your home. Page 9 Building your new custom home is a big decision. We make it easier and more enjoyable. We offer: • Superior products in the homebuilding industry • Experienced design specialists on staff • 24/7 access to home building management website • Simplified living neighborhoods • Building locations throughout Madison & St Clair Counties • Customer service to exceed expectations WWW.LIVEAUGUSTAGREENS.COM Love Where You Live! (618) 659-0217 WWW.SPENCERHOMESLLC.COM
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