First-Time Home Buyers Tech Tips
First-time home buyers need a lot of help to get through the process of looking for, finding, and then closing on a home. Buying a home is a great accomplishment but also represents a significant investment. This means that no one should take this jump lightly, making first-timers a little nervous. Don’t worry, though, because things are a little easier for you thanks to technology! The following are a few ways that tech can help you reach the goal of buying your first home.
Use Street View to Check the Area out
One of the coolest aspects of technology that you should utilize is the street view capability many online maps offer. You’ll be able to see fairly recent pictures from your phone or computer before you visit the area. You get to see if the house is right next to a highway or if homes nearby are well-kept or in disrepair. This is a great way to eliminate some options or help you identify your favorites based on location.
Find an Online Tool That Will Help You Check for Safety
Many families worry about the safety of a particular area. People who bought houses years ago only had the realtor’s word that the area was safe but that is no longer the case for today’s first-time home buyers. You can use technology to help you out in this department. There are many websites that point out recent crimes within the zip code you are thinking of moving to or around your address. There are a few options to choose from, so make sure you look for one that is well-reviewed and reveals a lot. Neighborhoodscout.com is one option where you can search for the qualities you are looking for in a neighborhood and see which results meet your needs.
Choosing a Home Inspector
Choosing a home inspector who uses technology to their advantage is also a good idea when buying a home. Home inspectors used to provide homebuyers with a paper report written by hand, but now they have access to tools which will generate an interactive electronic report which you can access from any computer or mobile device with your secure login. Once you have received the report, you can create a request list for the seller using a feature called the CRL™. The CRL™ makes it easy to generate a list for the seller of items you would like repaired, replaced, or negotiated and simplifies communications between all parties. When you are choosing a home inspector, ask what their inspection reports are like.
Hopefully, this guide helps ensure that you choose a home that is right for you. Be sure to ask realtors for advice, too, because you never know what kind of helpful tips you’ll get from a real estate expert. Remember not to settle when you are searching for a home. The last thing you want to feel is regret when you finally move into your new home, so be patient with your search.
Greater Tampa Home Inspections serves Tampa and the surrounding area with inspection services. Our inspection reports are digital and include access to the convenient CRL™ feature. If you are a first-time homebuyer, or any home buyer, seller, or homeowner, we would like to work with you in understanding your property. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.