In the past, buyers and sellers were completely dependent on rising home values and easy-to-obtain mortgages to dictate their moves. But ever since the real-estate market crunch, the process got a lot harder and simple knowledge on the market wont make for a successful transaction. Buyers must struggle harder to snag the right property and qualify for a loan. Even if you're entering a buyers market, like Aventura real estate, it pays to be a smart consumer. Here are some ways to make you one.

1. Choose properties you can afford

As your household income increases, dont be afraid to take bigger conventional loans when planning to purchase Aventura real estate property. Properties are affordable and waiting for your income to catch up to a larger mortgage will only make you lose out on several opportunities the current real estate market offers.

2. Look ahead

When buying Aventura real estate property, or any home for that matter, make sure to look ahead and envision your life. Always see the big picture. Where do you see yourself in the next ten years? Fifteen years? Will you still be living in the house or move to another? You should fashion out your financial plans today for the future. This will make all your present plans easily sustainable and manageable.

3. Read everything

Before signing anything, be sure youve understood everything that is stated. Its easy to dig up a hole of financial troubles for the future, if you're oblivious of the intricacies written in your mortgage. Make sure you know everything from the interest rate, loan amount and other important aspects of the loan. Especially if you're applying for an adjustable rate mortgage, knowing when your interest rate will increase and how much will give you enough time to form a suitable financial strategy for the future.

4. Use equity wisely

If you cant afford the down payment for the new home, think twice before using your equity or applying for a home equity line or credit or HELOC. Unless you dont foresee any emergency in the future, it may be best to save it first. While its tempting to use home equity to purchase a new Aventura real estate property, many homeowners, the savvy ones, reserve theirs for future projects theyll likely cannot afford today. Always look for options and never touch your equity unless extremely needed.

Mark Michael Ferrer
Aventura Real Estate