December is full of holidays and celebrations, making it a festive and fun time for many North Carolinians. However, when it comes time for friends and families to gather, many may have at the top of mind that a home of one’s own would be the best gift of all. While you may see less inventory on the market this time of year, that also means there will be less competition, which puts you in a unique position when it comes to negotiating. Check out some of our tips below to learn how to buy a home this season.
Be Flexible
Holidays are busy for everyone, so being flexible with scheduled showings and moving may indicate to the seller that you would be good to work with. A real estate agent can help you determine the push and pull of the process while keeping communication moving right along.
Find a Lender
Sometimes buying during the holidays can mean better service because home buying partners have fewer clients. It’s the perfect time to find a lender near you who can help you understand how much home you can afford and what home buying options are available to you.
Make a Wish List
Once you know what you can afford, it’s time to sit down and think about what you need in a home. Is it important to be close to family? Do you need a big kitchen for get togethers with friends? Make a list, check it twice and let your agent know what you want and what you need from a home.
Put Your Best Offer Forward
Sellers this time of year are likely very motivated to sell, so their home will be priced accordingly. This means that if you find a home you love, you’ll want to put your best offer on the table. Your agent will be able to wrap it up in a bow and hopefully get you a deal that works.
The North Carolina Housing Finance Agency wishes you a happy holiday season! To learn more about how we can help you buy a home for the holidays, check out our NC Home Advantage Mortgage™ suite of products.
