Do you know how to successfully navigate the current Florida real estate market? Do you know how to get the most for your money, and how to avoid unexpected costs? Have you researched the benefits of newly constructed homes vs. existing homes? Do you know how much home you can really afford?

Smart home buyers can answer each of these questions in the affirmative, and have thoroughly researched facts to back up their assertions. Smart home buyers take their time when preparing to purchase a new home. They do their homework, learn the real estate market, and know how to increase their chances of finding their perfect home. These preparations lead to better home buying experiences and help to ensure that you purchase the right home for your needs.

Increasing your home buying IQ

If you answered "no" to any of the questions listed above, there is no need to worry. It is easy to become a smart home buyer. It merely requires a bit of planning and preparation. Even first time buyers can greatly improve their home buying experience by taking a few simple steps. These steps are easy to follow, and best of all, require no monetary investment.

Get to know your finances

Before beginning your search for a new Florida home, you should thoroughly assess your financial situation. How much home can you really afford? Do you have good credit? Do you qualify for first-time home buyer incentives? Obtain a copy of your credit report, take stock of your monthly income vs. your monthly debt, and find a reputable lender. Once you have completed these initial steps, you will have a much better idea of what you can afford, and can begin the application process to obtain pre-approval for a loan.

Study the current housing market

The fastest way to learn about the housing market in your target area is to actually drive through each neighborhood of interest and take note of how many homes are on the market. If flyers are available outside homes you like, be sure and take one. These flyers often give information on square footage, number of rooms, amenities, and price. These important details will help you determine your target neighborhoods and give you an idea of where you may be able to find a great deal.

Interview local home builders

Some home buyers mistakenly assume that they can not afford a newly constructed home, so they eliminate home builders from their list before doing any research. The smart home buyer knows that newly constructed homes can be obtained at reasonable prices, and they offer the home buyer a level of security and peace of mind that existing homes can very rarely offer.

When you purchase a newly constructed home, you don't have to budget for repair costs. You have more freedom to choose the type of home and decor you prefer, and home builders regularly offer specials which make a brand-new home much more affordable than you may think.

Choose an existing home with care

If you decide to purchase an existing home, knowing how to spot costly repair projects is a must. Study the effects of the Florida climate on an existing home, and be competent at recognizing signs of flood damage, wood rot, insect damage, outdated plumbing and electrical systems, and roof damage. If you find a home that appears sound, still proceed with the inspection process and have a professional confirm that no costly renovations will be required.

Finish at the head of the class

When it comes to purchasing a new home in Florida, preparation and research can and you time, money, and increase your odds of finding just the right home for you and your family. By obtaining a thorough knowledge of your finances, buying power, target neighborhood, and all of the housing options available to today's home buyer before you begin your new home search will put you among the ranks of the smart home buyers.