iStock_000020499093Medium-347x459You know now is a great time to purchase real estate in Pensacola, Perdido Key or Coastal Alabama. You desperately want to begin searching for a home with a Southern Real Estate Sale agent. But, you aren’t sure where to begin – or if you even can.

Don’t worry; your situation is totally normal, and if a first-time homebuyer, to be expected. While you may think getting a realtor and asking them all your questions is the place you need to begin, you’re a little ahead of the game. First, consider speaking with a free housing counselor.

While an agent is well-versed in the mortgage and real estate buying process, the details of your financial situation can be better sorted out with a counselor, or at least a lender. A counselor can also advise you on all aspect of buying a Pensacola home or property along the Gulf Coast, including types of loans, credit scores, inspections, and other necessary steps.

Before you make the call to a counselor there are a few steps you will want to take. First, gather all your basic financial information such as debt payments, which include student loan paperwork, car payment amounts and documents for any current mortgage you might have. Also, talk honestly about your financial situation and what you know about the home buying process with your counselor so that they can adequately arm you with the needed information. Then, it’s time to begin looking for your home on the Gulf Coast with one of our experienced Southern agents!