There's a lot of uncertainty in the world, but one fact is clear: It's a great time to be a first-time homebuyer.

Bakersfield homes for sale are widely available and the process of buying a home has only gotten easier. You can now do most of the work from your bedroom or office while minimizing contact with strangers.

Convenience, of course, is only the beginning. Our agents have pinpointed important signs that mean the market is ready for buyers like you. If you act fast, you can benefit from advantages in your home search.

Not all the economic news out there is good, but the Bakersfield housing market is strong and active.

Here's what you need to know to make an informed decision about buying now:

1. Mortgage Interest Rates Are Near Their Lowest
   Mortgage interest rates have bounced back only slightly from their historic lows, making now a terrific time to take action on your home buying plans. Buying when rates are low means you pay less money overall and less per month. You could save thousands of dollars compared to the usual rates.
   
   
2. First-Time Buyer Assistance is Still Available
   First-time buyer assistance programs backed by federal agencies such as HUD and the FDA are still out there. These programs offer lower interest rates, reduced or no down payment, and no penalty if you pay your loan early. Specialized programs for veterans and others are also still operating normally.
   
   
3. Lenders Have Loosened Some Restrictions
   With many people facing unemployment or having to take on debt, lenders are loosening some of their stricter restrictions on credit score and other issues. If you have solid employment – and perhaps even paid down some credit debt the last few months – you're in an especially good position to get a loan.
   
   
4. First-Time Buyer Education Has Moved Online
   Virtually all first-time buyers who want loans at favorable rates will be required to do several hours of buyer education seminars. Luckily, you no longer need to go to a classroom to get it all done. It can all be handled online. You might even get done faster than you would otherwise.
   
   
5. Sellers Are Eager to Meet Buyers
   Sellers are getting back into the market, but in many places, buyers have yet to join them. Many motivated sellers need to close a deal to move on with their goals, and they are ready to bargain. Moving quickly is the key to meeting them before a glut of buyers makes the market more competitive.
   
   
6. You No Longer Need Traditional Tours
   Many communities have completely shut down open houses and property tours. Sellers want to avoid too much contact, but buyers have new tools to replace those experiences. With a guided "virtual tour" that uses high quality video, you can get all the information you need in a short period of time.
   
   
7. Even Closing is Easier Than Ever
   A successful close is the goal for both buyers and sellers. Most of the time, this adds up to a few hours at the title company or lawyer's office, signing dozens of forms. More closings are going virtual, using digital signatures or "drive-by closings" that only take a few minutes.
   
   
8. You Can Compare More Homes Faster
   Even if you aren't the most tech-savvy, there's a good reason to be excited about today's market: Cutting out travel time and meetings means you can compare more homes. Your home search doesn't have to stretch out over months, and the right real estate agent can help you get it all done faster.

Contact us at Watson Realty to learn more or get started.