3 things we wish we knew before buying our 1st home

First let me say this - this is definitely going to become a series. Every couple of months, we have a moment where we say “I wish we knew this before!” And while there was nothing that would have stopped us from purchasing our home, it would have been nice to understand these concepts prior to moving in:

• Budgeting for All Costs: Beyond the mortgage payment, there are various costs associated with buying a home, such as closing costs, property taxes, maintenance, utilities, and decor! It's essential to factor in all these costs to avoid financial strain and be able to enjoy your space as soon as you get the keys.

• “You are your super:” I often daydream of apartment living. I could just call our superintendent with an issue and then he’d magically arrive to fix it. Life was so simple then! Now, we need to be on top of maintenance of everything inside and outside our home and also know who to call to fix it! It genuinely feels like it’s always something - so building your roster of experts is crucial.

• Homeowner Association (HOA) Fees: If your potential home is part of an HOA, understand the fees, rules, and regulations associated with it. Being a part of an HOA community has its benefits, but it also has its limitations, and it’s important to know what compromises you may need to make once you move in. Our HOA requires approval on any changes we make to the exterior of our home, and while it does keep the neighborhood looking beautiful, it can be frustrating to not feel in control of your home.

The home buying process is both complex and rewarding! For us, where we are in our lives, the benefits significantly outweigh the challenges, but it’s important to speak to professionals, family and friends when going into such a big financial and emotional decision.