The housing shortage is taking a high toll on the housing market. The United States lacks five million homes, and the number of homes for sale is skyrocketing. This means that buyers compete against each other for a limited number of homes, driving up prices. If you’re looking to purchase a home in this competitive market, here are five ways to do so.
Get an Experienced Agent
There’s a good chance you won’t get the home you want if you don’t have an experienced agent. An experienced realtor will know how to navigate the competitive market and offer a strong offer on your behalf. They will also be able to negotiate on your behalf if there are multiple offers on the table.
There are many benefits to getting an experienced and professional agent on your side. Look for an agent with a proven track record of success in competitive markets.
Choose a Fixer-Upper
To avoid the bidding war, you can purchase a fixer-upper. These homes are usually more affordable and allow you to put your personal touch on the property. However, factor in the repairs and renovations you have to make before getting a fixer-upper home. Get a home inspector and get a quotation to help you out.
There are many benefits in getting a fixer-upper besides the lower price tag. First, you can make the home your own and customize it to your liking. Fixer-uppers are also far more common, so you’ll have more options.
It’s also good to look for off-market properties. These homes are not listed on the MLS, and they can be a great option if you’re looking to avoid competition. These homes usually come at a lower price as well. But the problem is that they can be harder to find.
Now that you know how to choose the right homes, it’s time for you to find a way to finance them. Here are some options.
Get a Government-Based Loan
Many government-based loans offer low-interest rates and down payments. These can be a great option if you’re looking to purchase a home. The most popular government-backed loan is the FHA loan.
The benefit of getting an FHA loan is that you can make a small down payment. You can also get a lower interest rate than a conventional loan. It also requires a lower credit score than most loans. However, there are some drawbacks. For example, FHA loans require that the home meet specific standards and be appraised by an FHA-approved appraiser.
Another popular government-backed loan is the VA loan. This loan is available to veterans and active-duty military personnel. The benefit of this loan is that you can get a low-interest rate and no down payment. There are also no monthly mortgage insurance payments. However, there are some drawbacks. To qualify for this loan, you must be a veteran or active-duty military personnel.
If you’re looking for a low-interest loan, the best option is to go through the government. There are many benefits to getting a government-backed loan.
Finance with Cash
A growing number of people are buying a home with cash. About 30% of homes purchased in 2021 were purchased with cash. The main benefit of this is that you can avoid the competitive market altogether if you have cash on hand. Paying in cash will give you a significant advantage over other buyers financing their homes. It’s the fastest way to get a home without competition in the market.
Of course, not everyone can pay cash for their home. But if you have the means, it’s a great way to get a home without competition.
Get Pre-Approved for a Loan
If you’re looking to finance your home, getting pre-approved for a loan is a great way to show sellers that you’re serious about buying. It also shows that you’re qualified for a loan and that you have the ability to pay for a home.
Getting pre-approved for a loan is simple. You can do it online or through your bank. All you need is your financial information, such as your income, debts, and assets. Once you have this information, you can submit it to lenders, who’ll give you an idea of what kind of loan you qualify for.
If you’re looking to purchase a home in a competitive market, there are several things you can do to give yourself an edge. Following these tips, you can buy a home without too much competition. Just get the proper financing for your home and ensure you can pay for it for years to come.
