If you are a prospective homeowner, consider asking yourself the following:
Are you ready to buy?
Owning your own home is about more than just being able to decorate any way you like; it’s about being prepared to maintain your home over the years, realizing that part of your income and time will go towards repairs and maintenance. It’s about being willing to take the risks of home ownership with a realistic expectation of the rewards.
How much can you afford?
It can be discouraging to find that your salary won’t stretch as far as the home you want to own. However, sacrificing a huge part of your income just to pay the mortgage can very quickly make home ownership a burden rather than a point of pride. It’s better to buy a modest home now and look at purchasing your “dream home” in a few years.
What do you want?
Do you like the idea of cleaning your own gutters? Do you shudder at the thought of lawn care? Would you rather just pay a fee every month and have everything done for you? Would obeying rules about when you can have your garbage cans out bother you, or do you want to live in a neighborhood where everything is ‘just so’? The answers to these questions can help you narrow down the search for the right type of property for you.
I can help!
You need a good agent who will work hard for you. I am dedicated to helping you find the right home, at the best price. I want you to find the home that will make you happy and successful in real estate ownership.
When you hire me to help you buy your home, I want to know what you want and how much you can afford. Then I’ll find a way to merge these two priorities and find a residence that you’ll enjoy owning.
Keep your objectives in mind when visiting a home. Sometimes the idea of owning a home can overwhelm your practical sense, so keep your feelings in check. Keep a list handy of the features that you need and want in a home, and judge each home by the list instead of by details that could distract you from your goal. When you meet with me, you can go over the pros and cons of each home. I can help you stay on track while still keeping our eyes out for a great property.
Make the offer. This can be a maze of “buyer”, “seller”, “purchase price”, “earnest money”, and “deadlines”. I’ll prepare the paperwork and go through it with you before submitting it. Remember, the seller may reject or counter your offer, so even at this late date, avoid setting your heart on the home you hope to own.
Get all necessary inspections done. A home inspector will check for signs of harmful materials like asbestos, lead paint, radon and mold. They’ll also check for evidence of pests, faulty wiring, leaks and check the sewer line. This is a crucial part of the home purchase. Not getting an inspection done means that you could be stuck in a home with foundation issues and no recourse other than to pay to have it repaired. Inspections will cost a few hundred dollars, but again, this is more than worth it in the end. There are several inspectors in the area that I’d be happy to recommend.
Do a final walkthrough before closing the deal. I will do this with you to make sure that everything agreed upon is completed prior to the final signing.
From our first meeting that determines your needs and wants to the moment that you receive the keys, I can help you with the complicated process of buying a home. Don’t hesitate to contact me to find out more about how I can make the home buying process easier!
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