Happy March, everyone! Here we are in the last month of the first quarter of 2017; can you even believe it?

TrAs we all chug along with our busy lives, I thought I’d take a moment to share some interesting research  that was recently conducted and published by NerdWallet regarding home buying — more specifically, the regrets some buyers feel and why. I thought this research was interesting because the results are broken out by the generations of survey respondents: Millennials, Gen Xers and Baby Boomers. As my clientele spans all three generations, it was interesting to see how responses varied.

Of course I hate to hear of any homebuyer feeling regrets, but it does happen (although I hope not to any of my clients!). The most common regrets found in this survey center on the process of applying for and securing a mortgage. I know what a stressful beast this can be; but I believe with my whole heart that it doesn’t have to be, at least not horribly so. My two best pieces of advice for buyers before they start down the path of purchasing a home are:

1. Know your financial picture. Understand your debt-to-income ratio, know where all your paperwork is (pay stubs, W-2s, etc.), and decide what your limits are when it comes to making a home purchase. Your limits will be based on your financial security and comfort, and they’re different for everyone. Stick to them.
2. Find allies you trust. Buying and financing a home is a complex undertaking. Don’t do it alone. Hire a real estate agent that you trust to guide you through the process; one you know will be available to answer all your questions. In addition to a good agent, you’ll need a good mortgage broker, too. As they say, you don’t know what you don’t know. You should be able to rely on your agent and your mortgage broker to give you all the information you need to make a sound home-buying decision that you won’t regret. So do your research and surround yourself with people who will be your trusted allies.

As any of my current and former clients know, I’m on your side. I will work hard to answer all your questions, calm your worries and guide you through your home purchase. I will also work to connect you with more allies, including excellent mortgage brokers. My goal is always to help my clients feel confident and happy with their decision, from the beginning of the home search to the closing table. You don’t want regrets and I don’t want you to have them, either!

If you’re considering purchasing a home, whether it’s your first time or not, I’d recommend you read the NerdWallet report. It’s helpful to learn from others’ regrets. After all, what are mistakes for if not to learn from them! Arm yourself with as much information as you can from the beginning. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

And of course, if you need an ally in Pittsburgh…I’d love to help!