Preparing to Buy Your First Home in Bakersfield

Preparing to Buy Your First Home in Bakersfield

If buying a home is on your bucket list this year, a little preparation now can make the process much smoother later. Whether you’re dreaming of your first home or moving up to something new, here’s how to set yourself up for success.

1. Start with Your Finances

Your first stop should be with a trusted lender. They’ll review your debt-to-income ratio, credit score, and savings, and give you exact numbers so you know where you stand. If your credit needs work, they can help you create a plan to improve it. They’ll also go over your loan options so you can choose the one that’s right for you.

2. Check Your Credit & Build Savings

Lenders will use your credit score to determine loan eligibility and rates, so check it early and work on any issues. At the same time, start saving for your down payment and closing costs—and remember, you’ll want to set aside extra for moving expenses and any updates your new home might need.

3. Know Your Budget & Stay in It

Determine how much you’re comfortable spending each month on your mortgage, insurance, taxes, and maintenance. Staying within budget ensures you enjoy your home without feeling financially stretched.

4. Decide Where You Want to Buy

Research neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle and long-term goals. Think about school districts, commute times, amenities, and future growth potential.

5. Explore Your Options—Including New Construction

Today, you have more choices than ever. New construction homes can offer competitive pricing, lower maintenance, energy efficiency, builder incentives, and even special financing rates. We can compare them side-by-side with resale homes to see which is the better fit for you.

6. Get Pre-Approved

Once you have your finances in order, getting pre-approved helps you shop with confidence and shows sellers you’re serious.

7. Hire a Real Estate Agent You Trust

An experienced agent (hi, that’s me!) will guide you through each step, from searching for the right home to making an offer and closing. If you have a house to sell first, there are specific puzzle pieces that need to fall into place—we do this all the time and will walk you through every step.

Buying your first home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation and guidance, it can be an exciting and rewarding experience.

📲 Ready to start? Call or text me—let’s map out your path to homeownership.

Monique Diaz
New Construction Specialist 👷🏻‍♀️  Your Home, Your Match 🫶🏼🏡
Realtor®  CalDRE 01506717
661-304-6078
Helping buyers & sellers with both pre-owned and new construction homes
👷🏻‍♀️ Over 17 new builds represented in 2024
Bakersfield Real Estate Group at Watson Realty
https://moniquediaz.bakersfieldishome.com
@moniquediazrealtor

#realestate #realestateagent #buying #selling #listreports #realestateexpert #financehub #homeowner