Let’s go find a house! But, before we get started, the key to an incredible experience is organization. First things first. Like most people in the US, this will probably be the biggest investment you’ll ever make…so you need to find the best loan for you with help from a pro. We have loan officers that we have worked with and can recommend. Any one of then have been excellent in their integrity, efficiency and professionalism. Next, you need to gather all the information for the loan application checklist.
Why the loan first? Because when you find a house and make an offer the seller will chose you because financing will not be an issue. Aside from price the most critical factor for a seller is “Can the buyer close the loan?” We know it sounds like a lot of work and no one likes to do this, but it is just like going to the dentist, either do it or dread it. We want you to be completely prepared and ready to close so the seller considers you the cream of the crop. It takes work, but it is well worth it and vitally important.
Now the fun part begins. The home selection process will be tailored to fit your specific needs. To help us find you the home of your dreams we need to know what you are looking for. Ask us for a buyer package and we will ask you a few questions about what you need or want in a house. Once we have this established, then you will be more prepared for the process of buying your home. Now its time to meet face to face, and let’s go shopping.
Tips for Buyers
- Get pre-approved through a loan officer so you will know how much home you can afford
- Are you ready to make a down payment?
- Consider your budget and find a monthly payment you are comfortable with
- Be realistic and practical about the home you can afford
- Make a list of everything you want or need then go back and star the 3 things you cannot live without (can be helpful to do separately if you are buying the home with someone else)
- Here are some questions to ask yourself about your new home:
- Location? Commute, privacy?
- How large a home do you need?
- What style of architecture do you prefer?
- Single family, town home, condo etc?
- Single level, 2 story etc?
- Is a view important?
- Outdoor living, yard size, style, patio etc?
- Bedrooms & baths?
- Garage?
- Any hobbies you need to accommodate?
- Are schools important?
- How much work are you willing to do on a home? Cosmetic repairs such as flooring & paint or major such as a kitchen remodel?
- Prioritize which features are most and least important
- Decide on where you would like to move, do research on the area
- Try driving the area during rush hours (or using navigation software!)
- Finding a home is only a fraction of the process
- Ensure you understand the process and we will guide you through each step
- Plan to have the home you are purchasing inspected which can cost around $350-500.
