Buying a home can be stressful! From collecting all your financial documents to making it through the inspection process, so much can happen to cause anxiety before closing day. It’s enough to make even the most relaxed person feel tense. If you’re starting to feel the crunch, here are some great strategies for coping with stress when you’re buying a home.
Choose the right agent for you
One of the best ways to help alleviate home buying stress is to work with an agent with whom you feel comfortable. Get references from family and friends, research agents online and schedule a few interviews. Get to know a little bit about each agent and how they work. The home buying process can take anywhere from 30-60 days, which doesn’t even include the time spent looking at houses. During that time, you’ll be communicating with your agent often. Working with someone who is compatible with you will go a long way towards making the process easier and less stressful. You can relax knowing you’re in good hands.
Buy within your means
Yes, that house with the large pool, home theater and wine cellar is amazing. And you might be able to afford it if you work hard and cut back on other expenses. But is it really worth it? Taking on a mortgage that you can’t comfortably afford adds a terrific amount of stress to your life. When choosing a home, choose one whose price fits well within your means. You’ll be more relaxed during the buying process and will be able to sleep at night once you close.
Keep things in perspective
There are plenty of things to trigger your deepest worries during the home buying process. Will the seller accept my offer? Will I get into a bidding war? Will the inspection turn up unknown issues? Will the home appraise for less than the asking price? Will everything go according to plan on closing day? These are all valid concerns, but you can’t let them get the best of you. Remember that this period of transition will not last forever, and that before you know it you will be closing on a house, even if it doesn’t end up being the one you thought you would buy in the beginning. Most things in life end up working out as they should, and stressing about an outcome will only sap your energy and make you feel unwell.
Take breaks when you need to
While buying a home is time-consuming, it doesn’t have to take over your whole life. Take breaks from the process when you need to. Go to the movies. Spend time with friends and family. Treat yourself to a spa day. Take the dog for a walk. Read a good book. Give yourself permission to unplug periodically. It will do wonders for your health and well being to take care of yourself while going through what is inarguably a challenging and life-changing process.
If you want to be as relaxed as possible while buying a home, work with a trusted partner and take time for yourself when you need it. Before you know it, you’ll be handed the keys to your new house!
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