Becoming a CA Coastal Homeowner has to be a dream for almost everyone in the world (ok, maybe we’re biased), but it can also be a daunting goal. With high demand and limited properties, it’s important to be prepared before you start the home-buying journey. It’s not like they’re making any more coastline around here. Here are the Strock Team’s five steps to help you make that dream a reality!
1. Determine Your Budget and Dream Lifestyle
Before you start your home search, it’s important to nail down your budget. This will help you narrow down your search and avoid looking at homes that are outside your price range. Consider your current income, expenses, and lifestyle to determine how much you can comfortably afford. And really lean into that lifestyle – beyond a gorgeous coastal retreat, you’re really buying the lifestyle. Want to surf every morning? Hike in the redwoods in the afternoon? Have enough acreage for horses? Walk to the farmer’s market? These are all ideal lifestyle choices to consider.
2. Get Pre-approved
Once you’ve determined your budget, the next step is to get pre-approved for a mortgage. In addition to the pre-approval, consider the Strock Team your personal shaman when it comes to navigating mortgage rates. We know, there have been a lot of ups and downs in that department – but you’d be shocked with how far (or low) a little creativity can get you. Getting pre-approved also shows sellers that you are a serious buyer, helping you stand out in a competitive market.
3. List Your Must-haves
Before you start your search, make a list of your must-haves vs. your nice-to-haves. These are the features that are essential to your lifestyle and happiness. This could include the number of bedrooms, the location, the view, or anything else that could be a make-it-or-break-it for you. Having a clear list of must-haves will help you (and your agent!) narrow down the search and find the perfect home.
4. Find The Best Local Agent
Ok, we don’t want to toot our own horn here, but, ahem, honk-honk. At Strock Team eXp, we’re dedicated to doing things differently: the housing crash of 2008? Seems like a great opportunity to nurture a sub-one-year-old brokerage. A traditional real estate business model? Try an innovative real estate company with marketing at its core. Stale home tour videos? How about elaborate productions with scripts, actors, and storylines that tell the tale of lifestyle? Yep, we go big and go home.
5. Start Touring Houses!
Our favorite step. Once you have determined your budget, are pre-approved, have that list of must-haves, and are connected with one of our stellar agents, it’s time to start seeing houses! Our agents will be able to provide you with a list of properties that meet your criteria, and you can start scheduling tours. Make sure to take your time when viewing properties and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Seriously, we love questions. This is a significant investment, and it’s important to find the right home for you and your family.
In conclusion, becoming a CA coastal homeowner can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By following these five steps, you can set yourself up for success in this ever-changing market. We can’t wait to work with you!
