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Homebuyer Bootcamp: House Hunting Like a Pro

Home for sale.

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  • Red flags to watch for: foundation cracks, water damage, outdated systems.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

Our next Homebuyer Bootcamp session, The Mortgage Process Uncovered, takes place on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 5:00 PM EDT. 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.

Register Now for Homebuyer Bootcamp: The Mortgage Process Uncovered

Don’t miss out—this series is your ultimate guide to becoming a confident homebuyer.



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