How to succeed when buying a home this Spring

Spring may not have "officially" sprung in Iowa, but we are feeling the excitement of buyers and sellers in the Cedar Valley! The warmer temps have our Oakies busy with new listings and buyers eager for a new place to call home. Before looking at houses, it is critical to have your ducks in a row if you want a place to call home. We asked our Realtors what three pieces of advice they would give buyers as the spring market approaches. Here is what they had to say. 

1. Make sure you are pre-approved. Without a pre-approval letter from a bank or credit union, your offer won't be as appealing to a seller. Having a pre-approval letter will show sellers that you are serious about making an offer. 

2. Work with a Realtor to have a game plan. By working with a Realtor, they can assist in creating a game plan so when "the" home is available, you submit a competitive offer. In the first few months of the year, we have seen homes receive multiple offers. It will be important to have professional assistance when it comes to writing a successful offer this spring.

3. Be open to different amenities a home or property might have. It is great to have a list of wants and needs when looking for a home. This can help your Realtor guide you to homes that meet your expectations. Because of our competitive market, it is just as important to be open to elements that you would not originally consider in a home.