Can You Afford a Second Residence?

by Denise Mason 01/26/2020

If you have always wanted to own a second home in the mountains, near the beach or just about anywhere else, now may be the ideal time to transform your dream into a reality. The housing market offers many opportunities for property buyers – even those who already own a residence. If you understand what it takes to navigate the homebuying journey, you could quickly and effortlessly purchase a second house that matches or exceeds your expectations.

Ultimately, there are lots of things you can do to streamline your search for a second residence, such as:

1. Get Your Finances in Order

If you still have a mortgage on your current residence, there is no need to stress. In fact, by consulting with a mortgage specialist, you can evaluate your home financing options as you prepare to search for a second house.

Mortgage specialists are available at banks and credit unions, and they understand the ins and outs of home financing. Thus, mortgage specialists can help you analyze your current mortgage, establish a homebuying budget and determine the optimal financing option for a second house.

Of course, if your current house's mortgage is paid in full, mortgage specialists can still help you get ready to launch a search for a second residence. If you collaborate with mortgage specialists, you can get the help you need to immediately obtain financing to acquire a second house.

2. Narrow Your Home Search

You know you want to buy a second house – now, you just need to hone your house search based on your individual needs. If you focus on residences in a select group of cities and towns, you may quickly discover a wonderful house that you can enjoy for years to come.

As you consider potential cities and towns where you want to purchase a second home, think about your short- and long-term goals, too. By doing so, you can boost the likelihood of finding a second house that will suit you perfectly both now and in the future.

3. Consult with a Real Estate Agent

For those who want to acquire a second home sooner rather than later, hiring a real estate agent is a must. Because if you have a friendly, knowledgeable real estate agent at your side, you can minimize the risk of encountering roadblocks that otherwise could slow down your homebuying journey.

A real estate agent is happy to teach you about the housing market in your preferred cities and towns. Plus, he or she can offer expert recommendations about how much to offer to pay for a residence you want to acquire. And if you have concerns or questions as you pursue a second home, a real estate agent is ready to respond to them right away.

Take the guesswork out of finding and purchasing a second residence – use the aforementioned tips, and you could speed up your search for a second house.

About the Author
Author

Denise Mason

Hi! I'm Denise Mason. WELCOME to my Website! Being a full-time REALTOR® gives me the opportunity to assist in achieving your wants, desires, needs, and priorities in selling or finding a home. My goal is to take care of my real estate clients by providing an exceptional, no drama experience that you not only deserve but should demand in the hectic and competitive marketplace of today. I work closely with you throughout your entire real estate transaction. I work to be your family REALTOR® for life. Success begins and ends with good communication. I love what I do and do what I love! I am positive, enthusiastic and truly enjoy people and the real estate business. My commitment to you, my client extends far beyond a single transaction. My goal is to communicate, educate and exceed expectations! As the daughter, wife, and mother of active duty and retired service members, I've had numerous relocation experiences; renting, buying and selling a home. I grew up in Arlington County, VA and lived there for more than 20 years. Upon my husband's retirement from the Army we could think of no better place to call home than Virginia, the place of our childhood. I have been a Prince William County resident since 1997. We have raised and educated three children in the Prince William County School system. My family is my pride and priority which makes me no different than you or any other individual who wants a safe and comfortable environment for yourself, family and friends. I look forward to helping you achieve your real estate goals. Call me at 703-283-0969 or email me so we can meet over tea or coffee & I can get to work for you!