TIPS FOR HOME BUYERS
Buying your home isn't the easiest process. Here are some quick tips to help you get prepared!
BEFORE YOU STARTBuyers real estate agents are paid out of the sellers commission payment--it's free for you so why wouldn't you work with your own agent?
It’s very important that the agent you choose is both great at their job and a good fit with your personality. Unlike the listing agent, whose first duty is always to the seller, a buyer’s representative is working for you and your best interests only. I'm here to help you throughout the entire home-buying process. |
DOGet Pre-approved: Make sure your finances are in order. A lender will review and double check all your credit reports and work with you to ensure that you have enough saved to cover both your down payment and your closing costs. You need to be pre-qualified for a mortgage before you start looking for a home--you need to understand the reality of your budget & a preapproval is required to submit an offer on a property.
Decide when you would be able to move. If you are a renter, how long does your lease have to run? Would the landlord allow you to sublet if necessary? How slow is the rental market in your area? Do you need to sell your home? This is all pertinent information for your agent and sellers. Together, we will determine what you really want from a home and keep that in mind when searching. Once you have found THE home that's best for you I will guide you through each step: from determining the offer price & negotiating the final numbers, to signing the contract, hiring the best home inspector & real estate attorney, to finding contractors that may be needed. We are a team! And you can feel confident that I will be there every step of the way. |
DON'TDon't Get in Over your Head. In other words, don’t let yourself become over leveraged. If you invest all your financial resources to buy the biggest home you can afford, you will likely find yourself without any funds left for maintenance or decoration and/or to save money for other financial goals. Know your numbers!
Don't Cut Corners. A smart buyer will insist upon a home inspection to ensure that any major defects are discovered before closing--you need to know what you're getting into. Contracts can be renegotiated based upon the findings. It's ok to be picky, but be realistic. Even brand new homes aren't perfect. Don't Negotiate Yourself Out of the Game. In other words, don't nickel & dime. Negotiation is certainly a big part of the real estate process, but trying to gain by looking for an extra-low price may lose you the home. Don't Ask for Everyone’s Opinion. Conflicting advice and opinions can be confusing, pick one or two trusted people to turn to if you really feel you need a second opinion. |
Getting the KeysPrior to the closing, secure home owners insurance and hire a closing attorney to review the contract. I have a vetted resource list of professionals to connect you to.
Bring a certified check to the closing as determined by the final statement--no personal checks! Try to relax because the keys to your new home are nearly in hand! Celebrate the aquisition of your new home! A house warming party is a great way to meet your neighbors and learn about your neighborhood. Some buyer’s remorse is almost always inevitable but don't fret--it will pass! Purchasing a home, especially the first one, is a huge commitment but the investment yields great returns. |
