4 Steps to Buying Your New Colina Home

Tips + Trends
Written By Vallure Agency

You’ve planned and fantasized and saved up for your new home. You’ve dreamed of all the fun you and your family can experience in a new neighborhood. And now you’re almost ready to take the leap. 

But what does buying a new home look like? Today, we’re breaking it down into four simple steps so you’ll know exactly what to expect along the way and how to be best prepared for every part of the process. 

When you choose Colina, the perfect journey homeward is possible. Our team of agents are dedicated to making the homebuying process simple, seamless, and above all? Enjoyable. 

1. Let’s talk about money.

We know—it’s no one’s favorite subject. But when you’re in the early stages of buying a new home, taking time to seriously consider how much money you want—and can feasibly—spend is paramount. 

Look over your finances. Start with your income—how much do you expect to bring home monthly? Is there a chance you could have an increase or a decrease in income in the next few months? 

Then, consider expenses and your credit score. Tally up a list, including your current mortgage or rent, bills, student loans, business expenses, or family costs (if you have kiddos!). And before you contact a mortgage lender—we recommend Colina Mortgage Group—it’s a good idea to check your credit report and get a sense of your current credit score. 

Once you have a good idea of your financials, you can have a clearer sense of how much you can commit to a down payment. A standard rate is 20% of the home’s price—but if you’re not quite there with your savings, don’t worry. Depending on the type of mortgage you qualify for, there are plenty of possibilities. For some quick calculations, Zillow has an affordability calculator that might be helpful to browse.  

2. Start searching. 

Once you have a fair sense of what’s possible for your budget, it’s time to start looking! Browse listings to get an idea of what homes are available in the neighborhoods or regions you want to live in. Now would also be a great time to consider what your non-negotiables are. Are there specific elements that you’re not willing to sacrifice? If you have kids, is there a specific school district that you want to live in? 

On our website, we have a map feature that allows you to view our communities across Houston. If you’re looking to live in a certain area of Houston, this is a great way to filter out options and cross-reference the various school districts and easy access to major highways and entertainment hubs. 

We’d also recommend visiting our model homes to envision what your home could look like. Meet with a member of our team and get the inside scoop on what Colina Homes can offer you and your family. 

3. Get that paperwork in order. 

Getting pre-approved early for a mortgage is a great idea. Our preferred lender is Colina Mortgage Group. Make sure you have all those important documents ready to go:

  • W-2 forms 

  • Pay stubs 

  • Proof of other sources of income 

  • Federal tax returns 

  • Recent bank statements 

  • Information on long-term debt (car, student loans, etc.) 

  • ID

  • Social security number 

We also offer down payment assistance, credit repair and credit building programs, and special lending options for first-time homebuyers, teachers, policemen, firefighters, nurses, and veterans. 

If this is something that interests you, please reach out to us and we would be happy to help support you. 

4. Shop, tour, and submit an offer! 

Once you’re pre-approved for a mortgage and you’re ready to find your dream home, be sure to reach out to our team of agents to help guide you through the rest of the process. 

If you know what neighborhood or community you’re most interested in, we can help you narrow down your top choices and then you can submit an offer on your perfect fit! 

We can’t wait to see you in one of our communities soon. Until then, happy house-hunting!  


 
Vallure Agency https://vallureagency.com/
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