First-Time Homebuyer Series
Frequently Asked Questions – How Many Homes Should I See Before Making an Offer?
#2 October 27 th , 2017
Welcome to our First-Time Homebuyer Blog Series. We’ve compiled answers to frequently asked
homebuyer questions to help you understand the many variables associated with buying your
first home. It’s our job to make this process as enjoyable and stress-free as possible for you!
There’s no magic number of properties you should look at before deciding to make an offer on
a house. We get asked this question frequently and our answer is always the same: The key is
to view the right amount of homes that will enable you to be confident in your decision to
make an offer on one particular property.
Some people really do buy the first home they see – and that’s okay. For others, it takes longer,
but with the selection of homes we can find within your price range, there’s something out
there that’s right for you.
It’s important to think about your priorities before your home search begins. What are your
absolute needs versus wants?
5 Key questions to consider before home shopping
- What neighbourhoods appeal to me? If you’re unsure, it may help to drive around.
- Do I want to commute? If so, how long am I willing to commute to work? Identify an
appropriate zone where it would make sense to live that’s within that commuting
timeframe. - How many bedrooms do I need? Bathrooms? Other important spaces?
- How large of a yard do I require?
- Can I afford all of this?
Identifying how much you can comfortably afford to spend on your home is a must before you
start looking at properties. That way, you’ll only spend time viewing homes you can afford to
buy as opposed to falling in love with something completely out of your price range.
Talk to a mortgage agent/broker. He/she will be able to determine what you can afford to
spend based on your income, debt, and so on. And, at the same time, you can secure a rate
hold so that you’re protected from hikes if rates should rise while you’re looking for your home.
You’ll likely find that, as you look at different properties, your priorities will shift. So, try to be
flexible and enjoy the hunt.
We can help you find the home of your dreams based on your top priorities. Answers to your
questions are just a phone call or email away!
