Considering buying my first house...

Brian Boyko · Post by **Brian Boyko** » January 2nd, 2012, 5:35 am

...any advice you guys have would be awesome. I'm looking at a (list price) $75,000 townhome in the McNeil area of NW Austin, 2BR, 2&1/2BA.

If it's available, and isn't infested with rats or roaches, I think I'm going to go for it. Your thoughts?

Matt · Post by **Matt** » January 2nd, 2012, 9:34 am

See how long it has been on the market. If longer than ~20 days, start asking why. If you are only looking at online listings and are finding this to be the best option you can find, keep in mind that the listings you see online may trend towards properties that didn't sell well initially, either because of issues with the property or a price outside of the market rate for that area.

This is what I found when house shopping a few years ago - lots of listings for houses that weren't that great at a price that was surprisingly high to me.

I went with a realtor who found us a much better deal on a house, which we put on offer on the day it went on the market.

Your mileage may vary, but I found a realtor was a good choice for me, especially since I was very naive about the whole process.

KathyRose · Post by **KathyRose** » January 2nd, 2012, 10:27 am

Especially for your first home, a realtor is essential. S/he will guide you through the process (not as straight-forward as you might think), keep you from making costly mistakes, and help you find the best mortgage deal.

Dan · Post by **Dan** » January 2nd, 2012, 10:40 am

If you're going to go for a realtor, though, make sure you ask who they represent. It's possible that your relator is also representing the house seller, which would create a conflict of interest. If you get a realtor that only represents you, then they have a greater incentive to make you happy and get you the best possible deal. More information here

hmlive · Post by **hmlive** » January 3rd, 2012, 7:25 pm

Hey Brian. I am a local Realtor. I would be happy to help you with your search. Let me know if I can help. Check out my website

HarrisMarkstheSPOT dot com

This forum wont let me post websites yet. But you see it right?

gene · Post by **gene** » January 4th, 2012, 10:10 am

My friend Marsha Mitchell is a good agent. She helped me buy my house and she knows the area. She also helped one other improv person find their house. She knows quite a few of us.

Her number is 1 (512) 836-5326. She is with Gardner-Mitchell Realtors.

Also, "not infested with rats and roaches" is too low a standard. There are plenty of bad places that meet that criteria. If that's all you want, you might as well rent.