"Before I Start Looking" - A Home Buyer's Checklist
Candye Hinton
Frequently, I meet people who are ready to start searching for a home because they're 'just ready to move.' While this is definitely a first step in the process, be sure you've done your homework in the financing department of life. Interest rates are rising and this is making some buyers feel rushed. With inventory of homes relatively tight, properties are selling quickly. In order to make an offer on any home you see, you have to have a pre-qualification letter or some evidence that you are a qualified buyer. By 'qualified', I mean, you must know what you can afford and have proof that a lender or bank has approved your purchase. Other considerations to make when determining your financing options are EMD's (earnest money deposits) and down payments.
Do you know where you want to search? Know where you want to live. Know the home prices so you're not falling in love with homes you can not afford or, vice versa, be sure that driving five more minutes doesn't give you a lot more bang for your buck.
What's you'r style? This is a big question. Sometimes it's just as helpful for your REALTOR to know what you don't like too. Narrowing down options the best you can will be beneficial for everyone. Do you want a condo? A single family detached home? A ranch, colonial, Victorian? How much space do you want? Do you prefer homes with an association or without? What are your deal makers (i.e., a pool, fenced in yard) and deal breakers (i.e, busy street, age of home etc.)?
Have you met the right REALTOR? It's important to like this person. You will, after all, be spending a lot of time with them and you should be comfortable. I know I'm biased, but me and my team are great. We go above and beyond for our clients. As a buyer's boutique we make it our job to super serve our clients. As a team, we always do our best to get you to showings at times that are convenient to you and cater your home search to your preferences every step of the way. We'll take our time explaining any and all paperwork to you. We'll get answers to your questions as soon as possible. With our large and experienced network we can help every step of the way. From financing to inspections, listing and selling, we can help.