Real estate shopping can be a tricky task, but following the steps below should improve your chances of finding the perfect property:
1) Get professional representation. Acquiring the services of a professional real estate agent is a necessary step in any home search. Your real estate agent is legally responsible for representing your best interests, and can be relied on to help you find exactly what you're looking for. This service is paid for by the seller, and will not increase the sale price of the house.
2) Get Prequalified. Before you get too far into your home search, you'll want to get prequalified for a real estate loan. This will help you determine how much you can afford, and allow you to move swiftly when you find the right home, especially when there are other interested buyers. It also indicates to the seller that you are serious about home buying and can afford to buy the property.
3) Find a Property. When searching for real estate, it is important to stay focused on what you need and want out of a property. It is easy to be distracted by good bargains, or great investment opportunities, but if they're not exactly what you're looking for, you'll find yourself paying for things you don't need, and going without features that you really hoped to have in a home. It is also important to be realistic and realize that you may have to sacrifice some of your less essential criteria in order to keep the price where you want it. Be sure to scope out the neighborhood, HOA rules, and school system as well.
4) Make an offer. Once you've pinpointed your dream house, it's time to get serious about the financial and contractual side of the purchase. Let your real estate agent guide you through this sensitive home buying process. Because you and the seller have different goals, rely on your real estate agent's experience and expertise to bring order and calm to the process - and help both parties reach a favorable outcome.
5) Get a Home Inspection. After your offer is accepted, set up a home inspection. It's common to find problems, including leaky roofs, cracked walls, insect infestations and foundation problems. Your real estate professional can help find a reputable inspector, and will negotiate to get you the most for your money once the inspector's report is final. If you negotiate repairs as part of the purchase, ask for a "walk through" before finalizing the home buying paperwork. Ask your real estate expert about home protection plans, which may save you money in the near future.
5) Close. Before your closing date, make sure you've made all necessary deposits and completed the paperwork - including mortgage, title, homeowner's insurance and any other paperwork required by local or state governments when home buying. Your real estate agent will be there to help you complete that closing checklist and avoid any last-minute snags. You deserve to enjoy every moment of the home buying process.
Contact us today at 602-492-8032 for help with your home search.