tmare said:
Do not buy a house right now. Your question indicates that you have a lot to learn about the process of buying a house and you need to educate yourself thoroughly before you attempt to make one of the biggest purchases you will ever make in your life. Just the thought of trying to buy a house when you live out of state implies that you are going to be trusting too many people with decisions about things you do not yet understand. Take your time, relax, rent for a while, figure it all out and then decide if you even want to buy because most of the smart people here have definitely decided that waiting a while longer is a smart move.
tmare,
I don't know if I fit in the "smart people" category (by my chosen profession it may obviously be presumed otherwise), but I think it is dangerous to tell someone DO or DO NOT do something, especially based on an incomplete knowledge of their situation. Each case is different.
If anything, I find it a better service to someone to ask questions to help them gain clarification for themselves on what is a priority for their own circumstance, i.e. :
"Why is now the time to consider buying a home for you?"
"How long do you plan on staying in the area?"
"Which communities have you considered?"
"How stable do you consider your employment?"
"Are you considering a cash purchase or a leveraged investment?" "How much?"
"Have you considered renting?"
"What are your other priorities in living in the area?"
"3CWG or Detached Subjugated?"
etc.
One of the most offensive practices I see/hear is a broker telling a client, "
If I were you, I would... (fill in the blank)" because at the end of the day, no matter what is said, the decision is up to the buyer based on their own circumstances, core beliefs, and values. The best I can do is help someone clarify for themselves. My opinion is irrelevant.
Hope this doesn't come across as bullish (it's not) or as bull$#!+ (that's up to you).
-IR2
P.S.
disclaimer - My family is waiting to buy our bigger place.