How to Create the Perfect Home Buying Checklist

Owning property in Colorado can be very rewarding in many respects, whether you're planning to make it your new permanent home or enjoy the perks of owning a vacation property. Before you begin your search, it's important to have a solid understanding of the real estate market and the steps you must take before purchasing a home. This home buying checklist will help you identify the essential phases of this process. If you're considering the Winter Park area of Colorado as your new home, be sure to check out our Summer Activities and Winter Activities pages to discover all the exciting things to do nearby. Then, start reviewing our home buying checklist and create your own to ensure that you're taking all the right steps.

What to Add to Your Home Buying Checklist

Find the Right Real Estate Agent

Hiring a real estate agent that's right for you is a key part of the home-buying process and should be at the top of your checklist for looking at a home. Though many buyers are tempted to start their search with listings on the internet, this can get confusing and overwhelming. When you choose a real estate agent you can trust and confide in about exactly what you're looking for, you'll have a much easier time locating the perfect property with less hassle.

Choosing a Location

Once you've decided you definitely plan to move, determining where you want to live is an important first step. If Colorado is on your radar, you should research more information on the state including basic details like the Colorado seasons. Then, take some time to familiarize yourself with the industry information like Colorado real estate trends. If you're new to real estate, this is an important step on your checklist for buying a home for the first time.

Determine the Most Important Features of Your Future Home

Now that you've found a real estate agent and settled on a location that you're interested in moving to, you should give some thought to what type of house you're envisioning. Before viewing any homes, make a list of features that you consider a mustāfor example, someone might be determined to find a property with at least three bedrooms or a front porch. Make a clear outline of which features are non-negotiable and which features might be perks but are not necessary.

Speak with a Mortgage Lender

Meeting with a mortgage lender is one of the most important steps in the home buying checklist. Before speaking with him or her, set a price range for yourself. You can also refer to this list of things to do before getting approved for a loan. Then, sit down with a mortgage lender to discuss your financial situation and decide which type of mortgage loan is best for you. Use our Mortgage Calculator to get an idea of how much your monthly payments will be. Then, browse our list of recommended lenders before making an appointment.

Make Winter Park Your New Home!

Colorado is one of the most beautiful places to live in the country with a landscape of towering, majestic mountains and dry, red rock formations spanning across the state. When researching properties for sale, you'll want to keep this home buying checklist handy. Our knowledgeable real estate agents are always happy to help answer any questions and provide additional resources. Browse a complete catalog of listings throughout the area, then contact us today to find out more about buying a home in the gorgeous town of Winter Park!