Hawaii Randy's Real Estate Opinions: Buyers are Sometimes Their Own Worst Enemies

I do a fair amount of business with young first time buyers.  Many are active duty military.  Working with young buyers can be a mixed blessing.

On one hand it is so rewarding taking a renter and making them a home owner.  The look on someone's face when I give them the keys to their new home makes what I do such a joy.

On the other hand you run into the occasional character that just makes you wonder about the future.                                                        

I had one client who was renting near my home.  He was an E-6 in the Military.  He had more than his share of toys; a pick-up, a car and three motorcycles.  Only he and his wife had driver's licenses so three of the five were parked at all times.  I forgot to mention that he had three young children.  As you would have guessed credit cards were run up and he had a couple of late pays on his credit.

The loan officer worked hard with him to get him approved for VA.  They had to write a few credit letters, etc.  He even got him to sell a motorcycle to pay off a couple of the small debts.  They were finally ready to go.

I made appointments to start showing them properties.  The day before we were to start the big search my buyer stopped over to my home to show me something.  He said you got to see what I got.  A Brand New Truck!

I almost lost it.  Trying to keep my composure I said to him casually, "so you've decided not to buy a home." 

He came back with the immortal words.  Oh, I still want to buy a home.  Is this going to affect the loan?

The good news;

When they left for their next duty station on the mainland they sold off all but one vehicle, paid down their debt and bought their first home.  I didn't sell them their home, but am happy I got them started down the path.  They occasionally send me updates.