What to do first?

DH and I are planning to start looking for a house in the next month or so. Right now I am just doing my research in the areas I like and waiting for prices to decrease a little more. But when we become serious about looking, what do we do first??? SHould we get pre-approved for a mortgage or just go to open houses???

Re: What to do first?

Get Pre Qualified and Pre approved

Re: What to do first?

You want to do both of those things in the beginning. I always say to go to Open houses because that will help you and your DH decide what style house you like the best.

You also want to get preapproved because just in case you fall in love with one of these houses you are not running around at the last minute to get all of your paperwork together.

Research school districts and the areas you want to live. It always helps when you have narrowed it down to a few towns versus all of Long Island.

Hope that helps.

Re: What to do first?

I would figure out exactly how much you want to spend first.

Then I would try to narrow down the areas as much as possible.

Start going to open house ASAP - there is no obligation and they can give you a good idea of what you are going to get for your money.

Start getting updates from MLSLI for the houses in your price range that are in the towns you are interested in.

Start taking notice of the realtors you meet at the open house - see if you connect to any - then you can get their card so that you have a realtor when you are ready....

Make a list of must haves, wants etc so that you can help narrow your search when the time comes.

Hope that helps!