Though the housing climate in Denver is becoming more balanced, we are still currently experiencing a seller’s market. There are plenty of home shoppers out there competing for a small number of available properties, which makes for a more challenging experience for many buyers. If you are shopping for a home right now, here are some tips for making the market work to your advantage.

Get pre-approved
This is different from a pre-qualification, which is little more than a conversation with your lender about your finances and intentions to purchase a home. When you get pre-approved, your lender will check your credit and review your financial and employment history to estimate how much home you can afford. A pre-approval puts this in writing and gives you more buying power, making you stand out among competitors. Why? Because a pre-approval tells the seller that you are serious and, therefore, likely to make this quick and easy for them.

Hire a great real estate agent
It is crucial to partner with an experienced agent, especially when you are buying in a seller’s market. It’s not enough to simply guide you through the process—your agent should be experienced in adverse market conditions and proficient in the art of negotiation.

Keep your search under budget
Typically, when a home buyer sets their price range, it changes once they start seeing the houses they can afford. It might be tempting to shop a little above your limit, but you should avoid this, especially in a seller’s market. Search for homes under your budget. That way, when you are ready to make an offer, you can bid up and thus outbid other buyers.

Do not have your heart set on one home
You have to be flexible with your wants and needs list and have an eye that finds potential in properties you would normally write off. Hold your options loosely and keep an open mind to avoid getting your heart broken when your favorite home is sold overnight.

As the weather turns warmer, buyers are ready to resume their house-hunting journey. Keep in mind the tips above so you can enjoy a smoother experience and find your perfect home!