Is 2024 the Year to Buy an Acreage Home?

If you or anyone you know has been wanting to buy a home with land but decided to wait last year because of interest rate increases, lack of inventory, or life got in the way some other way, this could be the year.

Even though interest rates increased a few points last year, they have come down over the past few weeks. This could mean a home that was out of reach financially last year could be within your budget this year. Unfortunately, though, it could also mean more buyers will be out looking for a home as rates continue to go down. Getting started early in the year and even before rates continue to decrease more, could help you end up with the home you want for a more affordable price and more favorable terms for you. 

Buying a home is a big deal so if you are thinking this might be the year to make your move, you’ll want to start planning and preparing early. The best way to get started is to schedule a time to talk here. That way when “the one” pops up, we can make it yours in the most favorable way to you as possible. 

The First Step

If you’re a first-time buyer, the best first step is to become educated about the process of buying a home. If you have bought and sold homes before, consider taking this opportunity to review the process. There is definitely a learning curve that everyone needs to go through whether this is a first home purchase or it’s been over 3 years since your last purchase. That’s why I always like to start with a meeting just talking about what’s involved in buying an acreage home.

If you currently own a home but would like to move to the next one, you likely need to sell too, which means juggling buying and selling at the same time so you don’t end up with two homes or no home. Since there is so much involved with buying and selling at the same time, planning things out well before you want to move is a must. Again, understanding the process and what needs to happen when is the best first step. 

After understanding the high-level overview of what happens when, the next steps are:

Learn about current mortgage loan options. There are so many loan options out there and now is the time to see what is available. I can recommend reputable lenders who have loan programs perfectly suited to your financial situation and goals. These days, getting a mortgage is not a “one-sized fits all” thing. The right lender and mortgage program really depends on your situation, how long you are going to own the home among other factors.

The most important part of the mortgage piece, though, is truly understanding how your desired monthly payment and downpayment equates into the right purchase price for you. Even the most savvy people might not understand how the math works, but you should before you start looking at homes.

Find out about assistance programs for buyers. Did you know that there are government assistance programs that can make buying a home much more affordable? You’ll be amazed to see what is available for HERO buyers (watch this video to find out who HEROs are), first-time buyers, veterans, city or state employees, etc. Programs from local housing authorities can help with down payment or low interest loans. Understanding what loans you might qualify is a huge step to making your home affordable.

Get to know the market.  After you understand the numbers, the next step is to check out certain neighborhoods or homes (even virtually) in terms of cost and features as an “educational” step. This will help you narrow down the location(s) and features that are important to you. That way you’ll be more efficient when you actually house hunt and are ready to buy. This video helps you understand our local market cycle – take a look before your start hunting!

Strengthen your credit score and build credit history. Your FICO credit score is your gateway to a good mortgage since lenders use it to determine your risk as a borrower. So the higher your score, the better your loan options. If you’re a couple, then BOTH of you will need to work on your credit!

Right now lenders offer the best rates to borrowers with a score of mid-high 700s for most loan products. Some government loans, such as FHA loans, will consider lower scores. It can take 6 months or more to improve your score, so start today. Pay your bills on time, don’t take on any large debt, and double check your score for inaccuracies.

Know what monthly mortgage payment you can afford. What a lender says you CAN afford can be very different in what you are willing to spend each month. Determine what the monthly payment should be. No one wants to be stretched too much and become “house poor”.

Save for a down payment. Cut expenses and save, save, save right now! No matter if you get a 3% down loan or a conventional 20% down loan, lenders still want to see if you have enough cash reserves in the bank. Remember, owning a home isn’t only its purchase price, but it includes other costs such as taxes, insurance, maintenance, and possible HOA fees. With a larger savings account, a lender knows you’re financially responsible and less of a risk. Plus, you’ll feel financially secure and sleep really well at night.

As you can see, it’s important to start planning early if you want to buy an acreage home this year. That way you can be ready for “the one” when it comes up. I’m here to help you make it possible. If you are ready to get started, our first step is to schedule a meeting to talk through the steps and create a specific plan for you. You can schedule a time here.