Buyer Tips
Choosing your real estate professional is, perhaps, the most important decision you will make when buying property. We believe the more you look around, the more you will see the value of working with us.
However, no matter whom you choose, these simple tips will help you find and purchase the home of your dreams more quickly and efficiently. If you're a first-time buyer you can find more information here.
Before you shop:
Be a smart consumer. Learn the financing basics. Know how to shop for a home loan that's right for you.
Get pre-approved. This takes very little time and lets you know the exact amount your lender will offer you.
Know what you want. Know what you want in a home. Size, commute time, maintenance and location are all important factors to consider for a beautiful future in your new home. Even if the home is right, the neighborhood could be all wrong. Research nearby schools, look at local safety and crime statistics, map the nearest hospital, pharmacy, grocery store and other amenities you’ll use as these could all effect home value.
Keep your debt load to a minimum. Don't make major purchases or incur any additional debt until after your purchase. Pay down credit cards and don't apply for new ones. Remember, financial institutions evaluate your financial situation on your gross monthly income. Your total monthly house costs should not exceed 28 percent of your gross monthly income.
Be prepared to view new properties quickly. Sometimes homes sell quickly, so be ready to make fast decisions. Be accessible to change the terms.
Have instant access to your agent. Instant communication can mean the difference in purchasing the property of your choice.
Before you buy:
Go See Some Homes. Tour 4 to 10 homes, if you can, before making an offer. The more you see the more you will be settled on what you want. The first few houses can attract you esthetically and emotionally but might not have what you need. Know what you want and have a checklist handy. Make notes and rate each house you see to help you remember your impressions. After a few homes they can all blend together making it hard to remember what you saw.
Submit a strong competitive offer. In today's market you may be competing against other offers.
Include a substantial earnest money deposit. Sometimes offers are accepted based on the amount of the deposit.
Try to minimize the number of contingencies. Fewer contingencies mean a stronger offer.
Hire an inspector. A professional building inspector or appraiser will make sure the house of your choice is in satisfactory condition.
Check zoning regulations and covenants. Good residential neighborhoods will be zoned to keep out commercial and industrial users. Read any restrictive covenants and make sure they fit your lifestyle.
Request an updated property survey. Be sure it clearly marks boundaries. Check for problems.
Make sure you know what stays or goes.
Your contract should be very specific about which items (appliances, etc) are included in the sale.
Get agreements in writing. Make certain verbal agreements are written into the final contract to avoid any stressful and expensive issues later.
