Checklist for buying a house
1. Get your finances in order. Pay your bills on time and don't open any new lines of credit.
2. Get pre-approved for a mortgage. Find out how much you can borrow before you start your search.
3. Establish your search criteria. Carefully consider the difference between your wants and your must-haves.
4. Visit properties. There is no substitute for going to see properties in person.
5. Make an offer. This is when your agent's expertise in selecting comparable sales and understanding the local market conditions will be invaluable.
6. Have the home inspected and appraised. An inspector can help you determine any concerns with the home's conditions. An appraiser will determine its value.
7. Complete the loan process. Once all the paperwork is done and the appraisal accepted, your lender will issue a clear to close.
8. Close! This is the day you sign all the purchase documents and receive your keys.
Choosing a Realtor
Finding an agent early in the home buying process is important because a good agent will help you set realistic goals for your search and they will have relationships with good local lenders. Using a lender that can work with your financial situation and get you to the closing table on time is an important part of making your dream of homeownership come true.
Experience Matters
We're currently in a market with low inventory. That means your agent's ability to present an attractive offer to the sellers and negotiate on your behalf is going to be very important. Surprisingly, more money isn't always what makes an offer the winning bid. You need an agent who understands that.
Are They Dedicated to Buyers?
If an agent also lists, that means you won't have their undivided attention. They'll sometimes need to be focused on negotiating deals for the properties they're selling. Our team's buyers' agents only work with buyers. That means they'll always be focused on you. And, because we're a team, you'll always have someone available to show you a property, even last minute.
Clear Communication
Communication with your agent is important throughout the process. You want someone who will respond quickly and in your preferred method - text, email, or phone calls. Also, as you're speaking with them, are they explaining things clearly? Do their answers sound rooted in experience and market data?
Trust
This is probably the biggest purchase you'll make. Do you trust that they're looking out for your best interest and not just trying to make a sale? Will they honestly explain to you the pros and cons of different homes and areas that you're considering so that you don't get stuck with something that loses value or is difficult to sell in the future?
You worked hard to save money for a home and you deserve to be represented by an agent who wants the very best for you. One who has the skills to get you into your dream home, but how do you find that agent? A referral from a trusted friend or family member is a great way. Or, you can try Google but you're going to get thousands of results, and that's a lot of reviews to read through!
Since you're here, why not learn a bit more about our buyers' agents? Read on for more information.
Start the home buying process off right
Completing our homebuyers questionnaire will help narrow your focus and more fully understand what you need and want in your new home.