Fall is in the air and the holiday season is gearing up. As you prepare to do your holiday shopping, our real estate agents want you to know that there is no better gift to your family than a new home. As you consider homes for sale in Henrico, the following are seven tips that can turn your homeownership dreams into a reality this holiday season. 

1. Golden Geese Lay Great Deals
   Holidays are not prime season for home sales which means that when you find a good deal, it is often a bargain. Sellers who list their home between November to January are typically highly motivated to make a deal. If you are willing to be patient and work with buyers on move-in dates, etc., you will find plenty of opportunities to pad your nest egg with plenty of gold.  
   
   
2. Watch Interest Rates Closely
   Many factors can influence interest rates, and you should pay close attention to news reports about potential rate changes. This will help you determine the best time to purchase and whether you want to lock in a 30-year fixed mortgage or another mortgage product.
   
   
3. Get Pre-Approved
   Sellers are eager to wrap things up quickly during the holiday season. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage will give you leverage at the negotiating table. For sellers, it shows that you are serious about making the purchase and that you have the ability to seal the deal. On your end, it also helps simplify your search and help you plan for the monthly payments. 
         
4. Shop Early
   While everyone else is getting ready for Black Friday sales, spend your time searching out the perfect property for your family. The thousands you can save in property prices far outweigh the deals and discounts offered by retailers. Our real estate agents can help you find a home in Henrico that fulfills your vision as the perfect setting to celebrate the holidays with family and friends. The sooner you start, the sooner you can move into your new home.
   
   
5. Talk to Your Accountant
   Homeownership offers some significant tax advantages. These include deducting mortgage interest. Of course, it is a two-sided coin and you will also be liable for property taxes. Purchasing a home will have a considerable impact on your tax liability. You will want to discuss this beforehand with your accountant so that you know exactly what to expect when the ink dries on the contract.
   
   
6. Bring Your Imagination
   It is easy to see the beauty of a home in the spring and summer. It's not so easy during the fall and winter. When searching for properties during the holiday season in Henrico, you will need to imagine and envision what the home and landscape look like when the flowers are in bloom and the trees are lush and green.  
   
   
7. Use Your Vacation Time
   Do you have a week or two of vacation time saved up? As things slow down at the office, now is the time to make the most of them. You can use your vacation days to scout neighborhoods, view properties, and seal the deal with the lawyers and bankers.

When visions of new homes replace the sugarplums and fairies in your dreams, Napier ERA Real Estate can help you make your home ownership dreams a reality. Contact us to start searching for homes for sale in Henrico this holiday season and to learn more about our services.