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Buying a home is a huge step and should be considered carefully. Use the list of what you need to do before buying a house to see whether this is really what you want.

1. Is it Worth it?

Weigh up the pros and cons of renting and buying. Both have their advantages and draw-backs. This is a decision you must make.

2. Know the Process

Learn about the process of buying a home. Find out what it entails and what you will need.

3. Watch Out for the ‘Fixer-Upper’

Fixer-uppers can be misleading. Be sure that you are willing and able to put in the work and finances that these properties often require.

4. Research the Prospective Property

Find out as much as you can about the history of the property and its utilities. This will give you an idea of what you are buying.

5. Deal with Difficult Buying Situations

Decide whether you are going to focus on buying a house or a selling a house. Doing both at the same time can get tricky.

6. Save

Save up to put down a larger down payment. This is especially the case in a hot market like Kelowna realtors are seeing there in the Okanagan Valley.

7. Get Your Financials Sorted

Make sure that you have a good credit history. Keep paying your bills on time and save up where you can. Practice living on the finances you will have after buying a home. This will tell you if you can afford it.

8. Keep an eye out for deal-breakers

You know what you want your home to look like and the features that it must have, but look out for the deal breakers. The 6 deal-breakers that might be a sign that you need to rethink are:

• Roof repair needed
• Location in high-risk flood zone
• Plumbing issues
• Restrictions on home improvement
• Outdated electrical systems

9. Buy at Less Than You Can Afford

“There are many home-buying calculators that tell you what you can afford. Be careful of going for a home that is your maximum. Rather find one that is a bit less than you can afford and gives you a buffer.” says a well-known realtor on Vancouver Island.

10. Take Your Time

There is no need to rush this important decision. Shop around for homes that you like, mortgages and insurance. Make sure you find the home that you will love to live in for many years.