What I'd never do if I was buying a home right now

The Oregon real estate market is a vibrant and unique beast. It's a place where majestic scenery meets a dynamic economy, and the housing market reflects that. As a real estate professional who has seen countless transactions unfold in this area, I've developed a keen sense of what works—and what doesn't—for home buyers right now.

If I were in the market to buy a home in Oregon today, here are the three things I would absolutely, unequivocally never do.

1. I would never wait for interest rates to drop before getting pre-approved.

This is the single biggest mistake I see buyers make. They hear talk of fluctuating interest rates and decide to "wait and see" before they take the first crucial step of getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Here’s why that's a losing strategy in our market:

• You lose your competitive edge. Oregon, while experiencing a rise in inventory, still has strong demand, especially for well-priced, desirable homes. When the perfect property hits the market, sellers want to see offers from serious, qualified buyers. A pre-approval letter is your golden ticket. Without it, you're just a tire-kicker in the eyes of a seller and their agent, and your offer will be pushed aside for one that is ready to go.

• You don’t know your true budget. Shopping for a home without a pre-approval is like going to a grocery store without your wallet. You don't know what you can afford, and you risk falling in love with a home that is well outside your price range. The pre-approval process not only tells you what a lender is willing to give you, but also gives you a clear picture of your maximum buying power. This allows you to focus your search and act decisively when the time is right.

2. I would never skip a home inspection.

In a competitive market, it's tempting for a buyer to waive contingencies to make their offer more attractive. While a seller might appreciate a waived inspection, I would never, ever recommend it for my own purchase. Oregon has its unique set of challenges, from older homes with deferred maintenance to potential wildfire risks and other natural hazards.

A comprehensive home inspection from a trusted, local inspector is non-negotiable. It's an investment that can save you tens of thousands of dollars and countless headaches down the road. An inspection will uncover issues that aren't visible to the naked eye, like foundation problems, outdated electrical systems, or plumbing issues. In today's market, you may be able to use the inspection report to negotiate repairs or a price reduction, or it may give you a reason to walk away from a bad deal.

3. I would never try to go it alone.

The Oregon real estate market is complex and highly localized. Trying to navigate it on your own is a recipe for frustration and financial loss. It's not just about searching for homes on a website; it’s about having a local expert on your side who understands the nuances of each neighborhood.

A top broker in this area knows about homes before they hit the market, understands which properties are priced right, and can advise you on the best negotiation strategy. They're a resource for everything from local lenders and inspectors to information on specific school districts and community amenities. When you're making the largest purchase of your life, you need an advocate who is dedicated to your best interests, not just a transaction.

In summary, buying a home in Oregon right now is a journey that requires preparation, a smart strategy, and the right team. By avoiding these three common mistakes, you’ll be in a much stronger position to find your dream home and secure it with confidence.

Ready to navigate the Oregon real estate market with confidence? Contact the experts at truHOME today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward finding your perfect home.

(541)890-1089                                  l                  www.truHOME.net                       l                           jamie@truhome.me