Looking to buy a home in the Outer Banks? Here are four essential tips for making the process as smooth as possible.
Get your finances in order.
Start by finding a suitable lender and get pre-approved for a loan getting a full picture of your credit. I have a list of preferred lenders so just ask! They will obtain copies of your credit report for you. Make sure the facts are correct, and fix any problems you find. This will put you in a better position to make a serious offer when you do find the right home.
Work with a professional (Me).
While the Internet gives buyers unprecedented access to home listings and resources like my site (Share with your friends), many aspects of the buying process require a level of expertise you can’t pick up from surfing the web. That’s why you’re better off using a professional agent like myself. I would love to be your exclusive buyer agent, who will have your interests at heart and can help you with strategies during the bidding process.
Find a house you can afford.
There are a number of tools and calculators online that can help you understand how your income, debt, and expenses affect what you can afford. Don’t forget, too, that there are lots of considerations beyond the purchase price, including flood insurance, Wind & Hall insurance, property taxes, energy costs, and general maintenance. Yes the condo has a great price but some have annual dues of $10,000 a year! That is $800 a month alone.
Think long term.
We all have moved to the Outer Banks for our own good reasons. Many of my younger friends say they do not want to buy a house because they may not want to stay here. Obviously, you should only buy if you are going to be here for a least a couple of years. Knowing the rent in the Outer Banks is beyond expensive we can find a house that has great resale potential and meets your housing needs. With the draw of many investors for long term rent or vacation rentals selling can be a breeze. You should consider buying in a neighborhood with good schools. Whether you have children or not, this will have an impact on your new home’s resale value down the line.
I would love to answer any questions you may have. Just fill out the form to the right.
Chris Keyser