That's an excellent question for a lender if you are looking to carry a mortgage. Many buyers will typically put anywhere from 5-20% down on a new home if they are going for a mortgage. Special circumstances like a FHA (Federal Housing Administration) or VA (Veterans) loans might require less down.

Be prepared to look for homes within your approval range, searching for homes significantly above with the hopes of getting a seller down to your level can sometimes end with heartbreak. If you set realistic goals about what you can afford financially, the rewards can be significant.

That answer depends on your situation! We'll break it down into two answers;

1.) If you are going for a mortgage, you should wait until you have a "Pre-Approval" this is not to be confused with "Pre-Qualified" as you will need a letter from your lender with specific terms that you qualify for. In most cases, when submitting an offer you will need this letter attached in order to even be considered.

2.) If you are purchasing outright, you should begin looking as soon as you are READY to move. Inventory turnover happens very frequently, sometimes properties only last 2-3 days on the market if they are an excellent value. If you are not ready to move within the next 8-10 weeks (time to closing) you might want to wait until you're ready to go forward with the transition.

In our opinion it's absolutely imperitive. Many buyers believe they can negotiate a better deal on their own, but that it typically untrue. We have negotiation skills that the average buyer does not. We also develop relationships with other agents in the industry. Sometimes a seller will choose to work with a buyer's agent because a past relationship has proven successful.

Remember, we are your RESOURCE for all things Real Estate. Feel free to use our services at your will, but remember our only objective is to help you find a home. We work on commission, so if we don't succeed in meeting your needs, we don't get paid. That being said, it's the SELLERS of a property that pay our fee. So don't stress about asking for our help. We're here for YOU.