The second session of People Driven Credit Union’s Homebuyer Bootcamp focuses on one of the most exciting steps in the homebuying journey—house hunting. In House Hunting Like a Pro, we provide essential insights into finding the right home, touring properties effectively, and making a strong offer.
Watch the recorded session below for free and download key resources to help you take steps toward homeownership.
Homebuyer Bootcamp Session 1: House Hunting Like a Pro Highlights
1. Understanding Market Conditions
Knowing whether you are in a buyer’s or seller’s market can impact your home search. We cover:
- The difference between a buyer’s market (more inventory, better deals) and a seller’s market (higher competition, rising prices).
- How Days on Market (DOM) can indicate a home’s competitiveness.
- Why understanding seasonal trends can help you buy at the right time.
2. Defining Your Dream Home
Before searching, it’s important to create a list of your home “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves.” We discuss:
- How to determine your needs vs. wants (e.g., location, size, features).
- Considering future needs such as resale value, family growth, and commute times.
- Recognizing deal breakers vs. flexible features when evaluating homes.
3. The Best Tools for Your Home Search
Finding a home is easier when you use the right tools. We cover:
- The benefits of using Multiple Listing Service (MLS), Zillow, and local listings.
- How working with a real estate agent can give you access to exclusive listings.
- Attending open houses and virtual tours to narrow down your choices.
- Setting up alerts and tracking favorite homes to act quickly when the right one comes along.
4. Touring Homes Like a Pro
When visiting homes, it’s important to stay organized. We cover:
- What to bring on home tours, including a checklist, notepad, and phone for photos.
- Key factors to evaluate: layout, condition, natural light, storage space.
- Red flags to watch for: foundation cracks, water damage, outdated systems.
- Questions to ask the real estate agent about the home’s history and pricing.
5. Making a Strong, Smart Offer
Once you find the right home, making the right offer is crucial. This session explained:
- How to understand fair market value and avoid overpaying.
- Crafting a competitive offer that includes price, contingencies, and seller motivations.
- How contingencies such as home inspection, appraisal, and financing protect you.
- The importance of earnest money deposits and negotiation strategies.
Watch the Full Webinar Recording
Watch the complete Homebuyer Bootcamp: House Hunting Like a Pro webinar here:
Download Your Free Resources
1. Home Comparison Worksheet
Use this worksheet to compare the homes you tour and make an informed decision.
Download the Home Comparison Worksheet
2. Homebuyer Bootcamp: House Hunting Like a Pro Presentation
Get the full slide deck from the session, covering everything we discussed in detail.
Download the HBBC: House Hunting Like a Pro Presentation
Join Us for the Next Session
Watch our next Homebuyer Bootcamp session, The Mortgage Process Uncovered. You’ll learn how to:
- Understand different mortgage loan options.
- Break down interest rates and how they impact your payments.
- Prepare for closing costs and what to expect in the final steps.
Watch Homebuyer Bootcamp: The Mortgage Process Uncovered
Don’t miss out—this series is your ultimate guide to becoming a confident homebuyer.
