Buyer's Guide

Would you happen to know where you want to buy? If you want a condo, townhome, or single-family home? Which features do you like and dislike? What’s available on the market now? If you answered no to these questions, now is the time to start researching. In addition to looking for homes that interest you, note any changes in asking prices. This research could give you valuable insight into housing trends in specific neighborhoods and help you when the time comes to make an offer.

Just because you think you can afford a particular payment every month doesn’t mean the mortgage company will agree. Just as they may approve you for too large of an amount, they may also approve you for a lesser amount or deny you a mortgage altogether. Lack of time at a job, insufficient credit, past bankruptcies, or other financial issues can cause significant problems when securing a mortgage. Before you set your heart on a home, talk to a mortgage professional to determine what amount you qualify for. This will also be an advantage when you make an offer on a home, as some sellers won’t entertain offers from those not already prequalified for a loan.

Finding the right home should be the most enjoyable step (other than moving in!). We will arrange showings of homes you’re interested in that are within your price range. Take notes about what you like and don’t like, and pay attention to details. Turn light switches on and off, open and close doors, and run the faucets in various rooms. Please don’t limit your inspection to the home itself. Explore the neighborhood and monitor traffic at certain times of the day, the parking situation, and how close it is to necessities like schools and grocery stores.

In most cases, your offer will depend on having the home inspected to ensure no significant structural damage or extensive repairs are needed. We can help you arrange this, and you can schedule it within days of making an offer. If there are no significant issues, the process goes to step eight. If there is, you can renegotiate your offer based on what needs to be fixed or withdraw it.

Your lender will appraise your new home so they have their independent value. The appraisal ensures that all parties pay a fair price for the house.