Let’s be honest, the Main Line is a strange animal. It’s hard to find two homes that are a like. Older communities, with much work needed even with the price tags that would make our forefathers stop dead in their tracks. Here are a few tricks of preparing for the journey:

Mortgage Pre-Approval

“Ya gotta have it”. Knowing what you can afford is half the battle. And when you do find that perfect house, you will need that letter to put an offer in. In today’s market, a seller will not take their home off the market for a contract unless they have proof of funds. It’s just that simple.

Location, Location, Location

The Main Line is a maze of neighborhoods that never get seen by the casual passerby. Study the areas, find the ones that best suits you. Keep in mind your route to work, local schools, shopping and the like. A pattern may emerge, and the area may find you.

Do you know what you want?

Features of a home are essential to loving where you live. How many bedrooms, bathrooms… do you need a fireplace, want that Jacuzzi, or must have a backyard for the kids? Figure out what is important to you. I suggest an A list and a B list: Must haves, and would be nice. You may not always get exactly what you are looking for, but with the right contractor, and a house with the potential, you will eventually have exactly what you want.

The Internet

If you have access, use it. Pictures, floor plans, and where it lies on the map can be a good indicator if the home has potential. Narrowing your search online can save you time and frustration in your search.

Find yourself a realtor you can rely on

You will need a realtor that understands your goals, understands your wants, and above all, has patience in helping you with your needs. Buying a home is a very personal, very timely process. Being pressured or made to feel like an annoyance does not make this highly charged decision any easier. Find a realtor that understands what you need, namely the best home out there for you.