C o n t a c t A g e n t s . C A
How Not To Pay Too Much For Your Home
Whether you are buying your first home, second or your third, the process of buying a home can be very emotional, and time-consuming process. At the end, if you feel that you made the right decision and got a good deal can make all the difference.
Do you really need that?
Thoroughly prepare yourself prior to viewing houses. It’s recommended that you develop a list of needs and wants. When looking at houses, make sure that they cover all of your needs and enjoy the wants if you can.
Talk to your mortgage broker
Visit your lending broker before you start shopping. Get your mortgage commitment in writing. Being pre-approved gives you a price range, and lets your Real Estate Agent know that you are serious and not just window shopping.
Get the right team to work for you
Buying a home is a complicated process, with many people involved. Having the right team on your side can make a big difference. An experienced, dedicated, and knowledgeable Real Estate Professional can put a team of advocates, including lenders, lawyers, home inspectors and movers, on your list.
Share your thoughts with your agent
The more you share the better he or she will be able to represent your interest. Letting your representative know exactly what you’re looking for, in terms of needs/wants, price range, and location, can eliminate unnecessary trips to unsuitable homes.
Location, location, location
The desirability and resale value of your home depend on its location more than any other factor.
Use your Agent’s knowledge
Your Real Estate Professional is trained in all aspects of real estate, understands buyer’s and seller’s markets, and the neighborhoods of the city in which they practice.
Pay attention to details
Make sure you know the difference between acceptable and unacceptable problems. Cosmetic items like peeling paint, worn carpeting, or unattractive wallpaper, and what can be used as negotiation items, as there will be costs involved in updating the home.
Major problems, however, are red flags. Look for items such as major foundation cracks, water damage, outdated electrical systems, and inadequate plumbing. These items could be too expensive to fix.
Hire a home inspector
A home inspection is the best way to gain peace of mind, sleep well and protect your investment. A proper inspection will cover all areas of the house from foundation all the way to the roof and from electrical and heating to plumbing and cooling. A professional home inspector can give you an objective view of the property, with a written report, indicating the present condition and items that will need repair.
Do you really need that?
Thoroughly prepare yourself prior to viewing houses. It’s recommended that you develop a list of needs and wants. When looking at houses, make sure that they cover all of your needs and enjoy the wants if you can.
Talk to your mortgage broker
Visit your lending broker before you start shopping. Get your mortgage commitment in writing. Being pre-approved gives you a price range, and lets your Real Estate Agent know that you are serious and not just window shopping.
Get the right team to work for you
Buying a home is a complicated process, with many people involved. Having the right team on your side can make a big difference. An experienced, dedicated, and knowledgeable Real Estate Professional can put a team of advocates, including lenders, lawyers, home inspectors and movers, on your list.
Share your thoughts with your agent
The more you share the better he or she will be able to represent your interest. Letting your representative know exactly what you’re looking for, in terms of needs/wants, price range, and location, can eliminate unnecessary trips to unsuitable homes.
Location, location, location
The desirability and resale value of your home depend on its location more than any other factor.
Use your Agent’s knowledge
Your Real Estate Professional is trained in all aspects of real estate, understands buyer’s and seller’s markets, and the neighborhoods of the city in which they practice.
Pay attention to details
Make sure you know the difference between acceptable and unacceptable problems. Cosmetic items like peeling paint, worn carpeting, or unattractive wallpaper, and what can be used as negotiation items, as there will be costs involved in updating the home.
Major problems, however, are red flags. Look for items such as major foundation cracks, water damage, outdated electrical systems, and inadequate plumbing. These items could be too expensive to fix.
Hire a home inspector
A home inspection is the best way to gain peace of mind, sleep well and protect your investment. A proper inspection will cover all areas of the house from foundation all the way to the roof and from electrical and heating to plumbing and cooling. A professional home inspector can give you an objective view of the property, with a written report, indicating the present condition and items that will need repair.