 Need
Before
you buy a home
- Before contacting
a realtor, it is important to have an idea of what you would like to
spend per month on a mortgage.. Weigh the total household income,
before taxes and deductions, against a monthly house note that is roughly
30% of this amount. A realtor will help you add in property taxes
and the current interest rates as they apply.
- Design your dream
home. One of the most exciting aspects of home buying is the volume
of choices and features that you will be faced with. With this
in mind, it is recommended that you make a list of amenities that you
cannot live without. Do you want a garage? How big do you
want the yard to be? Will you need a guest room? 3 bedrooms
and 1.5 bathrooms? Central heat and air? Your realtor will
be able to work from this list to narrow down your options and save
you unnecessary trips to homes that do not suit your needs.
- Location: Narrow
your search even more by picking one or two communities that fit your
life style. Be aware of school districts, property taxes, business
districts, commute time, etc. As these affect the final cost of
living as well. Once you decide on a community, your realtor can
assist you with this information.
- Familiarize yourself
with the terms. The sale is defined by two sides, like in any economic
interaction. The difference is that you will be represented, in
this case, by the ìselling agent.î The seller will
be represented by the ìlisting agent.î A realtor who
has had experience in both fields is probably your best bet. Insert
website or small glossary.
- Shop for a realtor. You
are about to purchase a home. Second to the importance of that
purchase, is the importance of a friendly, interested, knowledgeable
realtor. A realtor offers a service, and you deserve the best service
available. Donít be shy about calling around, asking for
references, and talking one-on-one with an agent. They appreciate
your interest and want to work for you.
Contacting and buying
Now that you have
a basic outline of your house, a general idea of location, and a working
budget, itís time to contact you realtor.
- Driving around
will give you the best idea of whatís available in your desired
neighbor hood. Search engine link will also give you an idea of
upcoming homes and your realtor will be able to tell you about foreclosures,
rentals, and any houses that may not be listed but are on the market.
- Open houses and
tours. Open houses can usually be visited without a specific appointment
and without a realtor. The listing agent will be present for questions
and concerns and a write up of the house is often available. Your
realtor will be able to tour a house one on one with you by setting
up an appointment about a day in advance. At this time, your agent
will be extremely helpful with specifics and will be able to give you
the same info as the listing agent.
- Making the offer. John
is the best link that you have to negotiations. He
has your best interests in mind, knows what you want out of your purchase
and most importantly, has the tools and knowledge to negotiate for you. It
is highly recommended that you do not contact the homeowners as this
delicate process can be adversely affected by your personal information.
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