Buying a Home
August 17, 2007
Buying a home is one of the most important decisions you will make in your life time but it does not have to be one of the scariest. There are some very simple pointers to help you get started looking and buying the house of your dreams.
1. Find an agent that will represent you and your interest in the transaction. If you call the listing agent on the sign be aware that the agent will probably not be representing your best interest in buying the house. The listing agent will be working for the seller not the buyer.
2. Get pre-qualified with a lender to purchase a home. Go to a trusted lender and make sure you can buy the home before searching for a house. Getting pre-qualified determines how much you can afford. It allows you to move quickly when you find the right home, especially when there are other interested buyers. It also indicates to the seller that you are serious and really can afford to buy the property. It also helps you not fall in love with a house that you can not afford. The lender will help you stay with in your budget of a house payment. Remember though what you get Pre-qualified for and what you can Afford are two different things. If you are having trouble finding a lender your real estate agent should be able to help point you in the right direction.3. The next step is to narrow the search for your house. Decide what features are most important to you. Making two lists: one of the items you can’t live without and one of the features you would enjoy can help in your new house adventure. Narrow down your lists as you look at your houses. Your real estate agent can then show you houses that meet your expectations.
4. Start visiting houses with your real estate agent. Your agent will set up showings on houses that meet your needs. They will help you narrow down the houses that you look at and will keep track of the ones you are interested in. Once you find your dream house then your real estate professional will help you put an offer on the house and get an accepted contract.
5. Once the contract is accepted your real estate agent will go through with you a step by step process of inspections, warranties, change of address, utilities and closing of your new home.
The process of buying a home can be a scary idea but if you have a real estate professional on your side, working for the buyer and not the seller, the process can be enjoyable and stress free. Jeff Lange Real Estate Professionals want to work for you to find your perfect home.
Amy Hajdukovich
Sales Associate
