Kirby Cox's Calgary Real Estate Blog

Buying a house is indeed a complicated process that needs a lot of thinking through and smart decision making. Owning a home mirrors your financial capacity and security. Having your own home is a great investment too. However, it can be stressing if you don't have any idea on how to buy a house. When it comes to finding the best homes within the best locations, taking a good look at Northwest Calgary real estate might be your best chance to do so. But if you want to make a success at buying your home in Calgary, here are the things you need to know and why.

Know your credit score.

Owning a house is equivalent to saying that you are financially secure. However, that dream house of yours might end up in foreclosure if you don't settle your finances right. Do your homework right now and know about how and where you can get a good mortgage. If you doubt your own credit score, you ask a credit report from your bank and study it. Take notice of negative reports and try to improve your credit score. In that way, you'll be able to pull off getting a decent mortgage to purchase your home.

Be familiar with mortgages.

Knowing how much loan you'll be able to pre-qualify saves you time in picking out houses that are out of your budget. Also, familiarizing yourself with mortgages gives you an idea of how much your purchasing power will be. In the seller's eyes, you're a stronger buyer if you know what you can afford and how much you'll be able to comfortably pay. If you are not that familiar with mortgages and how it works, it'll be better to contact real estate agents in Calgary or do it with your bank.

Determine your budget.

After knowing your credit score, it's time to set your mind on the budget you have at hand. Consider the price you can afford comfortably and how much cash you can pay for a down payment. Don't neglect the extra expenses involved in buying a new home too. Consider the taxes, the loan fees, the inspection fees, and any other fees there is. You should also plan ahead about making your monthly payments based on your income.

Know the kind of house you need.

Luxuries are definite budget killers. If your idea of a house is complete with Jacuzzi baths, Olympic-sized pools, a luxurious master suite or anything similar, don't be surprised if you have to pay too much and go overboard your budget. Instead of setting your mind on the ideals, sit down, get a paper and pen and list everything you need inside your home. When you're doing this, consider your lifestyle and your everyday routine. Are you single? A small-single home would be good to start. Starting a family? There are affordable homes available in Calgary where it's ideal to raise a family, take North West Calgary homes for sale for example. Knowing exactly the kind of life you'll have to live will help you determine what kind of home you should pick.

More than these things, keep in mind that determining the value of the house you'd like to purchase is also another factor to consider. That includes the total square footage area, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, house extras like a fireplace, patio, etc., location as well as the house's condition; will it be a new home or a resale one?

For expert advice on choosing the best homes within the North West Calgary real estate, contact Kirby Cox & Associates to help you find the best of homes in Calgary.