Time to go Shopping

You’ve done your preparations and found the perfect agent; now the search begins!

Here are some home buying tips that will save you time and headaches:

Narrow Your Search Area:

Discuss the areas you’re interested in with your agent and get his or her feedback. This is where your agent’s local knowledge comes in handy. Then, take a drive through the area and make note of particular neighborhoods or communities that catch your eye. This is also a good time to cross neighborhoods off your list if they don’t meet your requirements.

Narrow Your Search Criteria:

Make a list of must-have and must-not-have features. This will allow your agent to eliminate options that don’t meet your criteria and focus on those that do. A list of wants will also help your realtor to rate the homes you might be most interested in.

The Search:

Once your realtor provides currently available homes that meet your criteria, it’s time to take a closer look. Your real estate agent will make appointments to see the properties and will walk you through the homes.

Take Notes:

Take note of what you like and don’t like about the homes you see. This will help you as you decide between them, or guide you in narrowing your search criteria to better meet your needs.

Time to Buy!Now that you’ve found your dream home it’s time to make an offer. Work with your agent to draft an offer and discuss your negotiation strategy.

Escrow, Appraisal…

The contract and closing process can be daunting for even seasoned home buyers. A good agent will guide you through every step of the process.

Initial Agreement and Deposit:

An effective agreement is the contract, based on the final signed offer, between the potential buyer and the seller of the property. It is common for this contract to be amended during the home buying process.

In order to help the process go smoothly and efficiently, it is recommended that a buyer follow these tips:

• Keep a written copy of everything. This includes the original offer, all counter offers, the signed offer, and any subsequent changes or amendments.
• Understand and meet all timelines in the closing process. These will be clearly defined and are critical. All home inspections and related negotiations must be done before the end of the due-diligence period; and your lender will need their deadlines met to ensure that the purchase is funded on time.