Nothing beats a beach getaway. The water, the sand, and the breathtaking sunsets are enough to entice many to relocate permanently to these locations. But how do you choose one with so many of these destinations in the country? South Tampa, Florida is more than just a summer vacation destination. The city continues to grow in popularity, thanks to its thriving job market, pleasant year-round weather, bustling entertainment scene, and more. As such, doing your research in advance and figuring out how to give yourself an advantage over other buyers is important. Here are some key tips for buying a home in South Tampa.
Understand the Market
The first step when hunting for a home in South Tampa is understanding the local market. Is the market favoring buyers or sellers? How fast are homes selling for, and for what price?
The South Tampa real estate market is quite competitive. Homes stay on the market for an average of 19 days, meaning you must act fast once you find the home you want. Also, the low inventory of homes for sale in South Tampa means that home prices are steadily rising.
Determine What You Can Afford
Buying a home is a huge endeavor, and if you are financing it, it is also a long commitment. Therefore, you must be honest with yourself about how much you can afford to pay monthly for your new property.
However, remember to budget for additional expenses, such as property tax and insurance. You can use online tools to obtain rough estimates, but it is best to consult a knowledgeable real estate agent to obtain a more accurate assessment.
Improve Your Credit Score
Suppose, during the pre-approval process, you learn your credit score is below average. A blank credit history, high debt loads, or even an inconsistency in your reports could be the culprit. Either way, find a means to improve your rating to receive the lowest possible mortgage rate.
Choose Your Preferred Location
If you are not familiar with the neighborhoods of South Tampa, it is a good idea to do some research or visit them in person. Examine the neighboring amenities and determine what matters most to you and your family.
Explore the inventory in your selected area to see what activities, restaurants, stores, and other amenities are available. Would you rather live in a calm, family-friendly neighborhood or next to a shopping center?
Perhaps you dream about living minutes from the ocean. The 1,350 miles of breathtaking coastline in Florida are, after all, one of the best reasons to call this state home.
Find the Right Agent
Whether you are looking for a single-family house for your growing family or a condo for yourself, you need an experienced realtor on your side. Your select realtor should be a skilled negotiator ready to go above and beyond to help you find your dream home.
Before settling on one, consider meeting several agents to assess their qualifications, personality, and other factors important to you and your purchase.
Discover Your Dream South Tampa Home Today!
Finding a new home can be a huge hassle, but it does not have to be! With the expertise and experience of real estate agent Bret Crino, you are guaranteed to find the perfect home for you. Bret Crino is committed to client satisfaction, and would be glad to help you navigate this housing market for a fulfilling and exciting homebuying experience. Call Bret Crino today to get started on your home hunt!
