Taking the leap into first-time home ownership can be a daunting experience – but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re looking to make the process of buying your first home in the Asheville area a smooth one, the agents at Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty can help. Mosaic’s agents are well-versed in the particulars of purchasing a first home; they are trained to support you through every step of the process, implementing tools and resources rarely secured by buyers who choose to go with less experienced agents. Following, a few tips from Mosaic to help you on your way to buying your first home:

Money Matters

Before diving deep into your home search, it’s best to meet with a mortgage broker who can explain the types of loans for which you qualify, and ways in which you can capitalize on financial aids available to you as a first-time homebuyer.

A Mosaic agent can help you formulate an expected cost checklist, and advise on ways to tackle, stagger or better manage those costs. As with any big-ticket purchase, there will be risks associated with buying a home. It’s Mosaic’s job to make you aware of all of those risks, so that you’re fully prepared if and when you encounter them.

Educate Yourself

Did you know there are a variety of educational programs geared to the first-time homebuyer? A Mosaic agent can explain the class options offered in the area; everything from broad instruction to personalized guidance is available to you.

Strategies to Prepare

Attaining the fiscal know-how necessary for a home purchase takes some practice. Mosaic knows this, and has a range of tips for getting you – and your wallet – ready for the undertaking. Everything from saving strategies to credit repair can be thoroughly explored with the help of Mosaic’s knowledgeable staff.

Knowing the Rules

Did you know specific loan rules can apply to homes on private roads? Or that certain condominium complexes can carry assessments and fees beyond the standard purchase price? When it comes to first-time home purchases, Mosaic agents are well-versed in the rules, both routine and unconventional. Having them in the driver’s seat means never being surprised by hidden or little-understood regulations.

Tips like this are only a start; if you are ready to buy your first home in the Asheville area, and want a plan that thoughtfully encompasses all of your purchasing parameters, contact Mike Figura at Mike@MyMosaicRealty.com or call him anytime at (828) 337-8190.

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Guest post by Mosaic Realty Agent Nancy Horowitz

Whether you’re looking for a job ahead of your relocation to Asheville, or you already live in the area and want to further your career, there are strategic steps that can make for a smoother job search. As a real estate broker for Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty, and a former recruiter, I am often asked for career advice. That said, below are my Top 5 Job Search Tips 

1- Do Your Homework.

With something as simple as buying a new yoga mat, you do research. You might look for best sellers, read reviews, compare prices -- it’s a similar process when looking for a job, yet obviously more intense as you’re building your career! When I decided to leave recruiting, before becoming a real estate agent, I needed stability as a 9-5er. I hit the job boards, but I also thought about my interests. I made a list and began the hunt for companies that involved my passions. That’s how I ended up at a local software company that connects volunteers with volunteer opportunities. You never know what’s out there until you start looking for it.

2- Get Social.

Whether it’s online, via LinkedIn, Facebook or Instagram, or in person, start noticing or asking what your various networks are doing and where they are doing it. Look into your different circles, alumni groups, interest/hobby groups, or parent groups; for those already living in Asheville, start attending functions or activities.These interactions provide solid insight into an organization, can get your foot in the door, or just plain give you ideas on different directions to take your career.

3- Work Your Resume.

As my dad told me years ago, “a resume is a work in progress.” Accept and instill that attitude as you will always be adding to, editing, and tweaking it for that one company, that one job, that one career move. Have a basic outline, starting with what your employer might write in your job description, but upgrade and personalize it to include your specific accomplishments. Provide details of your contributions, over and above what the basic role entailed.

4- Find Your Angle and Stand Out.

What is unique about you and how can you incorporate that in applying for the job? This is where you get to be creative, not just a typical cover letter but something that demonstrates who you are and how that might benefit the role and/or company. After I applied online for the software company job, I did not hear back. After a few days, I walked my resume in. I met the CEO, who passed my resume along to the director of sales, who emailed me the next day to schedule an interview.

5- Follow Up After the Interview.

Gently poke with a friendly reminder. Of course send a thank you note, but do not be afraid to periodically reach out again. This is a great way for a potential employer to see how you would interact if you were an employee. Find a common ground and once again be creative: Share an article you read about the industry, discuss a favorite Asheville activity, or just ask about their weekend. This continued communication can make a big difference. 

Prior to joining Mosaic, Nancy Horowitz spent more than 15 years as an executive search consultant. Connecting an employer with an employee involves a thorough understanding of both parties’ demands, strengths and goals; Nancy draws upon this foundation to determine her real estate clients’ needs and successfully walk them through the home-buying or -selling process. 

Click here to read Nancy’s full bio, email her at Nancy@MyMosaicRealty.com, and follow @whyasheville on Instagram to see what Nancy is up to. 

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