Common Mistakes Buyers Can Avoid

If you are interested in buying an Anchorage home, there are a few common mistakes that buyers can avoid if they know what to look for.  You definitely want to keep a list of your questions handy at all times and always hire the right team of professionals for your needs to make sure your Anchorage real estate purchase goes smoothly and effectively.

Choosing the right agent for you - Since both personalities and experience can vary greatly from agent to agent, you should interview several local REALTORS before deciding which one you want to represent you.  Before you interview an agent, get a list of your most important questions together and use them to help you find out their qualifications and if they are a good "fit" for you.

Research lenders - Again, gathering a list of your most important questions will help get the interview process moving along.  Ask anything and everything you want to have answers for.  With the predatory lending practices of mortgage companies in the past, you want to make sure you understand every aspect of what goes into your mortgage.

No window shopping - If you are looking in an area that is considered to be highly desirable, there will be a ton of competition.  A home for sale in a desirable area doesn't have the same issues as one that isn't.  This means that if you're not ready to buy at that time, it may not be there when you are ready.  So, only look for a home when you are absolutely ready to purchase one.

Think about the future - While you may be fine with the small bedrooms, no master bathroom and a laundry room in the garage, will another buyer feel the same?  If you are purchasing an Anchorage home now with the thought of selling it in a few years, you need to consider the home's resale value.  You also want to check out the neighborhood to see if the homes are appreciating in value or if they are on a losing streak.  If they are still tumbling in value, that could mean that you may find yourself losing money when it comes time to sell it.

By keeping these common mistakes buyers can avoid in mind when looking for your Anchorage home, you are sure to come out ahead in any real estate transaction.  If you are considering purchasing any Anchorage real estate, make sure to contact me today!

Pauline Hofseth, your Anchorage real estate specialist