Buying a home is an investment, and with Lakeland being named the hottest real estate market in the country in 2019 (considering the health of new home construction, job growth, public school ratings, and the number of millennials moving in), there is no better time than now to find your next dream home. But if it’s your first, it may seem a little daunting.

No matter what’s on your wishlist (curb-appeal, open floor plan, huge yard, maybe even a pool?), staying within a budget that fits your needs can be a challenge. So we’ve gathered together a checklist of what to do if you’re home shopping this spring so you can get your investment on… and have a house-warming party in no time. 🏡

Let’s channel our inner HGTV-self and get started.

🏦 Start with home financing

The first step in the loan process is to become pre-qualified. You’ll then know what the bank will be able to lend you and what home you can afford. The next step is an approval. Try out this mortgage calculator to find out what your monthly payment would be when you input a home price, down payment, loan program + interest rate.

🛠️ Building vs. buying

Should we build or should we buy? Building from the ground up will give you everything you want, but it will take some time to construct. Buying an existing home will save you lots of time, but may involve some compromises in floor plans and amenities. Each option has its pros and cons, so we recommend making a pros + cons list. If you choose to build, there are other loan options available, such as a Construction to Permanent Loan or an End Loan.

♻️ Consider going green

Choosing a sustainable home can mean long- and short- term savings. Some “green” options in new builds include Low-E windows, insulated ceilings, a programmable thermostat, foam-in-block walls, tankless water heaters, Energy Star appliances, and low maintenance landscaping.

💵 Consider loan options

At first glance, mortgage loan options can seem like a mystery. When broken down, they are made up of three things: loan term (30 years, 15 years, or other), interest rate (fixed or adjustable), and loan type. Loans are then broken down into various categories depending on their size or if they are part of a government program.

👷 Work with a local expert

In our humble opinion, the process is an easier one when seeking experts in the field. Whether it’s a builder, a real estate agent, or a loan officer, you don’t want to miss out on any beneficial details or options in your home shopping process.

Learn more about the home buying process (from start to finish) from the experts at Southern Homes online here.

This content was created in partnership with Southern Homes.

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