Buyers
Guide
Listed
below are some of the steps you'll go through when buying a home. The
items underlined are things that you may need assistance from a real estate
professional like Andy.
- Familiarize
yourself with the mortgage process.
- Begin
the application process by getting pre-qualified and pre-approved
from a Mortgage Lender. Do this first. Your Agent will need your mortgage
qualification, and it will significantly strengthen your offer when
you find a home.
- Get
your financial picture in focus as soon as possible. Since
it is an important component, be aware of your credit situation.
- Find
an Agent that
you trust. It is important to do this before you go rushing off looking
for homes or you may end up with no representation.
- Determine your housing
needs
and wants to determine what types of houses you should be considering.
- Familiarize yourself
with the various
types of housing available: Single
family, townhouse,
and condo.
- House
Hunting Time! Make a scorecard
for each house to help you keep track of the properties you've seen.
- When
you find an acceptable house, write an offer.
Familiarize yourself with how offers become contracts.
- Negotiate
your best deal using the information you have acquired.
- If
you haven't already done so, apply
for a mortgage loan.
- Arrange
for home
inspection. Protect yourself and do not skip this step!
- Learn
about home
warranties and what they protect.
- Compare
and secure homeowners insurance. Since homeowners insurance is
a long term expense, getting the best deal here brings savings
that continue.
- Arrange
for closing agent or attorney. Make all final preparations for closing.
- Make
moving
plans. If you plan to use a moving company, make comparisons and
reserve time now.
- Secure
final loan approval and commitment from the lending institution. If
you have done your "up-front" work, this should be one of your easiest
steps.
- Do
a final walk
through of the house.
- Final
closing
and settlement.
- Move
to your new home and begin enjoying it--you deserve it!
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