Buying a home is one of the most exciting steps you can take in life. However, it is also a big decision, and the process may feel overwhelming at times. The good news is that if you approach home buying in an organized way, you can maximize the excitement and minimize the stress. A checklist is always a good starting point! On that note, our real estate agents are excited to share this fall home buying checklist. Complete the items on this list, and you'll be ready to succeed.

• Check Your Credit Score
  Your credit score will determine whether you qualify for a mortgage, and also what interest rate you are offered. Check your credit score early in the home-buying process. This way, if needed, you can get a head start on improving it. 
  
  Banks generally give people with credit scores in the high 700s and 800s the best interest rates. However, you can certainly qualify with a lower score. Certain programs, like FHA, have lower credit score requirements than conventional mortgages.
  
  
• Gather Your Income Documents
  Most mortgage lenders request your tax records and a W-2 statement from your employer. Get copies of these documents now so you're ready to complete mortgage applications.
  
  
• Narrow Down Your Neighborhoods
  When you have a little extra time on the weekend, drive around through various neighborhoods. Which ones do you find most appealing? Pay attention not only to the types of homes in each neighborhood but also to the distance from work, school, and other places you visit regularly.
  
  Try to make a short list of 3- 5 neighborhoods you're most interested in. This will help guide and focus your home search.
  
  
• Meet With Agents
  If you don't already have a real estate agent, now is the time to find one. Don't hesitate to talk to a few agents before hiring the one who feels like the best fit. Ask agents questions about the types of homes they typically list, how they like to communicate with clients, and how they prefer to negotiate offers. Having a good agent on your side from day one will make your home search much simpler and stress-free.
  
  
• List Your Top Features
  It's easier to decide which homes are worth looking at if you know exactly what you're looking for. So, sit down and make a list of features you want in a home. Next, work your way down the list and put either an A, B, or C next to each item. "A" items are must-haves; you won't even look at a home without them. "B" items are ones you really want but may be willing to compromise on, and "C" items are ones you want but don't need.
  
  You can share this list with your real estate agent. It will help ensure the homes they send you are on point!
  
  
• Set a Budget
  Look over your finances and decide how much you can afford to spend on a home. There are no hard-and-fast rules you have to follow here, although there are some guidelines. One guideline is to buy a home worth no more than three times your annual income. Another guideline is to buy a home with payments that are about one-third of your take-home pay. Of course, you'll need to consider your future family plans and spending habits, too. When you've settled on a number, share it with your real estate agents.

After completing this checklist, you should be ready to start looking at Belleville homes for sale. Feel free to contact us if you need any more guidance or assistance.