How to Buy New Kalispell, MT, Real Estate: A Guide

Did you know Kalispel is home to almost 25,000 people? 

As the largest city in Northwest Montana, Kalispell is a bustling community with unique Old-West charm. 

With endless hiking trails, warm western hospitality, and a vibrant arts and culture scene, it’s no wonder you have decided to buy a home in Kalispell.  

Ready to enter the Kalispell real estate market? 

Find out how to buy new Kalispell, MT, real estate here.  

Understand Why You Want to Buy a House

Purchasing a home is a significant life decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you’re not entirely confident, you might end up regretting your decision. 

People choose to buy a home for several reasons, including: 

• Tax benefits 
• Appreciation 
• Equity 
• Savings
• Predictability 
• Freedom 
• Stability 

Once you have decided why you want to buy a home, make a list of what’s important to you in a home.

Check Your Credit Score

After determining your housing needs, it’s time to check your credit score. This will help determine your financing options. 

Lenders use your credit score to determine whether to accept your loan application. It will also impact how much they’re willing to lend to you and how it will impact the term and interest they offer. 

You can still get a home loan with a low credit score. However, you should aim for a credit score of 670 to 739. 

Create a Housing Budget

Now you know what your bank will lend you, it’s time to set a realistic budget for your new home. This will help you set parameters about what you can afford and how much your all-in costs will be. 

First-time homebuyers tend to forget various costs such as HOA fees and money for maintenance and repairs. Remember to set aside some money for a down payment too. 

It’s essential to ensure your budget can handle the monthly mortgage payment without sending you into debt. 

Shop Around for a Mortgage

Getting preapproved for a mortgage can give you the confidence to focus on properties you can afford. 

More often than not, people tend to choose the first lender they find. When you buy, your aim should be to borrow at the lowest possible interest rate. Doing so will allow you to save money over the life of your loan. 

Get at least three quotes from three different lenders to get the best deal. If you’re a first-time homebuyer, ask what incentives are available to you. 

Hire a Real Estate Agent

When you buy real estate, it helps to have an agent in your corner. An experienced real estate agent can save you time and money by helping you find your home and negotiating a great deal on your behalf. 

Contact a few agents in the local area and be prepared to ask questions, like: 

• How long have you been in real estate?
• What do you know about this local area? 
• What’s your average number of clients at one time?

You want to hire a real estate agent with experience, local expertise, and expert negotiating skills. 

Find a Home

Now for the fun part! Take advantage of online listings and physically drive around neighborhoods searching for “for sale” signs. 

Look at enough houses to understand the prices in the neighborhood you want to live in. This is when an excellent real estate agent can be a huge asset. 

If you prefer new homes, look for new housing subdivisions. More often than not, you will be closer to amenities and live in a nicer part of town.

Better yet, you can choose your house design and make upgrades where you see fit. 

Make an Offer

Once you’ve found the home of your dreams, it’s time to make an offer. 

Work with your agent to understand the local market, make a strong bid and stay within your budget. Buying a house is emotional. Your agent can help bring a more rational approach to the transaction to help you stay in your price range. 

The seller can accept or reject your offer or make a counteroffer. If you choose to make a counteroffer, consider your budget and goals. Don’t overpay for a home that will send you bankrupt within the year. 

If the seller accepts your offer, congratulations! But it’s not over yet! 

Obtain a Home Inspection

Before you close, it’s crucial to conduct a home inspection. A home inspection contingency allows buyers to learn about major and minor issues before purchasing a home. 

Your agent should recommend an inspector to do the job on your behalf. If your inspector finds any issues, this can lead to another round of negotiations with the seller.

Some homebuyers opt to skip this step to avoid missing out on a property in a seller’s market. However, it’s an important step that makes you aware of what needs attention before finalizing the contract. 

Close On Your New Home in Kalispell, MT

The inspection has come back all-clear, and you’ve secured your financing. You’re on the home run now!

Closing involves signing paperwork for your loan and the deed. Your agent can walk you through the document details and clarify anything you don’t understand. 

Once all the paperwork has been signed, you’ll receive the keys to your new home! Congratulations! Kalispell has gained a new member of the community!

Ready to Buy New Kalispell, MT, Real Estate?

Why visit Kalispell when you can just live here? 

Immerse yourself in everything Kalispell has to offer, including hiking, fishing, boating, and so much more. 

Take the first step to your new life and buy new Kalispell, MT, real estate. 

Bloomstone is a new residential subdivision located in the heart of Kalispell, Montana. With unparalleled views of Glacier Park and within walking distance of schools, shopping, dining, hiking, and more. 

Our newly designed neighborhood offers durable construction and creative design at an affordable cost. When you buy property here, you become part of the Bloomstone family. 

Contact our team today for more information.