So, you’ve been daydreaming about that perfect home and sharing your plans with just about everyone, right? You’re probably getting a ton of advice from friends and family, and it can be overwhelming. But guess what? Not all of it is accurate! That’s why I’m here as your Raleigh, North Carolina realtor, to give you insight on 3 home buying myths busted, that you might have heard.

MYTH #1: You Have to Put 20% Down to Purchase a Home

Let’s start with one of the most persistent myths out there. It’s the belief that you need to have a whopping 20% down payment ready to buy your dream home. Now, while having 20% down does have its perks, like lower monthly payments, it’s not a set-in-stone requirement. In reality, there are several financing options available to make your homeownership dreams come true. Some loans require as little as 3% down, and there are even resources and programs to assist first-time homebuyers.

MYTH #1 Tip: Go Local with Your Lender

Here’s a pro tip: Don’t rush into getting pre-approved from an online lender. Instead, find a local lender you can sit down with. Someone who understands your unique financial situation and can help you explore the best mortgage options for your future.

MYTH #2: It Doesn’t Matter if I Don’t Have a Real Estate Agent

Some folks think they can go it alone in the home buying process and skip working with a dedicated real estate agent. But let me tell you, that’s like trying to navigate a maze without a map! A buyer’s agent is your trusty sidekick, helping you schedule showings, keeping you in the loop about new listings, and, most importantly, negotiating on your behalf. Without one, you might miss out on prime opportunities and end up feeling a bit lost in the market.

MYTH #3: Wait Until “Spring” to Start Looking For Homes

Now, here’s a myth that’s as common as sunshine in North Carolina—you should only start your home search in the spring. But hold on, why wait when you can start whenever you’re ready? In fact, searching for your dream home during the so-called “off-season” can be a fantastic idea. With fewer buyers in the mix, you’ll face less competition when it’s time to make an offer. That means you could save some cash and have the freedom to take your time in making a decision.

What’s Next?

So there you have it—3 home buying myths busted. If you’re thinking about making homeownership a reality, you’re already ahead of the game. But don’t stop here! Your next step should be sitting down with a real estate agent in your area who can be your guide through the entire process. With their expert advice and your newfound knowledge, you’ll be well on your way to finding that perfect home sweet home. If you are local to the Raleigh, North Carolina area, I’d love to help you get started on your home journey! Just contact me using this form, and I’ll get back to you lightning fast.