What Do I Need to Know Before Buying a Home?
Guidance from Tim Scheib, Des Moines Real Estate Professional with Real Broker
If you’re thinking about buying a home in the Des Moines area, excitement is probably just the beginning of what you’re feeling. But beneath the excitement, there are important questions and steps to understand. As a real estate professional devoted to guiding buyers through their journey, I’m here to break down exactly what you need to know before stepping into homeownership.
1. Assess Your Financial Readiness
The foundation of any successful purchase is understanding your finances. Review your credit score, savings, monthly income, and expenses. While there are mortgages for a broad spectrum of financial profiles, having a stable income and decent credit increases both options and leverage. Remember, it’s more than just the price of the home—you’ll also need to budget for closing costs, property taxes, insurance, and upkeep.
2. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
In today’s market, one of your strongest tools is a mortgage pre-approval. This not only shows sellers you’re serious but also gives you a clear budget. Pre-approval is different from pre-qualification; it’s backed by verified financial documents and empowers you to move quickly when you find the right property.
3. Identify Your Must-Haves & Dealbreakers
Create a list of your needs versus wants. Consider location—such as schools, commute, neighborhood vibe—and features like number of bedrooms, outdoor space, and accessibility. This clarity will keep you efficient when touring homes and comparing options.
4. Explore Neighborhoods and Lifestyle
Des Moines is a tapestry of unique neighborhoods: historic districts, vibrant new developments, quiet suburbs, and areas with energetic nightlife or cultural amenities. Whether you want walkability, privacy, or proximity to recreation, let your lifestyle be a guide. Research current property values, future developments, and community plans in your target areas.
5. Factor in Resale Value and Future Growth
The home you buy today will impact your finances tomorrow. Consider future resale potential—nearby parks, new schools, public infrastructure, and growth corridors often signal strengthening value. I help clients look at these trends to position your purchase as a long-term investment, not just a place to live.
6. Understand the Buying Process
Buying isn’t just about finding a house and making an offer. Negotiations, inspections, appraisals, and financing all play critical roles. My role is to steer you through each step, ensuring you understand timelines, paperwork, and what to expect at each major milestone.
7. Prepare for the Home Inspection
Inspections are essential. Even if a home looks perfect, underlying issues might exist. Use the inspection to understand the property’s true condition—and to negotiate repairs or price adjustments if needed.
8. Prepare Your Offer Strategy
Homes in Des Moines can receive multiple bids in certain price ranges. I work with buyers to create competitive, thoughtful offers, leveraging local market data and seller psychology for the best possible outcome.
9. Stay Flexible
Flexibility is key, especially in a dynamic market. If your first-choice home slips away, don’t be discouraged—often, the perfect match is just around the corner. Patience and adaptability make the journey much smoother.
10. Work With a Local Expert
Finally, don’t go it alone. Navigating contracts, disclosures, negotiations, and local nuances calls for expertise and knowledge. With deep roots in Des Moines, I provide insights that national sites and distant agents simply can’t match.
Let’s get started together
If you’re ready to explore homeownership, I’m here as your partner, educator, and advocate. Let's schedule a chat, dive into your unique needs, and build a roadmap toward your dream home. There’s no question too small—and you deserve answers that fit the Des Moines market.