Buying a Home
Congratulations on the first step of buying a home! As an experienced real estate agent I can assist you through the entire process of buying a home, starting with the mortgage and continuing right through closing – and beyond. I will help you shop for the best interest rate and terms and, if you wish, suggest mortgage lenders.
Get Pre-approved for a Loan
Obtain a copy of your credit report and your FICA score and, if necessary, do what you need to do to improve it. The higher your FICA score, the better your interest rate. You can get this information online or I can help you. Contact several lenders and determine which one will give you the best deal.
Determine Your Price Range and Area(s) in Which You’re Interested
By now you should have a good idea of how much home you can afford. This helps you narrow down your home search. You should also begin researching the neighborhoods in which you might want to live. I can assist you with this.
Decide Which Amenities and Features You Must Have – and Which Ones Would Be Nice but not Necessary
How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want? Would you prefer a newer home or an older one with established landscaping? Which features would you be willing to give up if you find the otherwise-perfect home?
Begin Testing the Market
Right here on my site, you can find listings that meet your criteria as well as neighborhood data. See what’s available in your price range and explore neighborhoods.
With me, Begin Seriously Looking at Homes
I can compile a list of homes based on your criteria or, show you any homes you might have already found – including any that might have just come on the market. Look at homes with a critical eye – does the floor plan work for you, is the property in good condition, would it be right for your lifestyle? In short, can you imagine yourself and your family living there?
Take notes at each home you visit. What do you like and not like? Narrow down your choices; re-visit homes in which you’re interested. See them at different times of the day.
Make an Offer
When you’ve identified the home you want to buy, be ready to help your agent prepare a written offer quickly. I am familiar with market values and will help you arrive at a price that gives your offer the best chance of being accepted.
At this stage, try not to become emotionally attached to a home. Your offer may not be accepted for any number of reasons. Have backup homes in mind. Be prepared to negotiate through your agent with the sellers.
Once Your Offer Is Accepted
You’ll be asked to submit an earnest money deposit that usually isn’t refundable.
Begin making moving arrangements (select a mover, obtain change-of-address cards, inform friends and relatives).
Have the property professionally inspected
-If necessary, request repairs
-Obtain homeowner’s insurance
-Contact utilities (phone, water, power, etc.)
-A few days before closing, stage a walk-through
-Obtain a cashier’s check for the down payment and closing costs
At Closing
-Make sure the terms and conditions of the loan statement are correct
-Carefully read everything before you sign
