Information For Property Buyers
Having your very own home has always been a dream and a goal for many-many people. And buying one is a very responsible and sometimes a compicated task. But no matter if you have made this your present goal or just thinking about it you can always count on Leslie Ballinger's help and advice. Here are the steps you can take to get yourself prepared and eventually successfully invest in your dream home.
Before Visiting Houses
First of All
You need to shop for mortgage rates and terms. A difference of even half a percentage point can mean a huge savings over the life of a loan. For example, the difference in the monthly payment on a $100,000 mortgage at 8 percent vs. 7.5 percent is about $35 per month. Over 30 years, that's $12,600.
Then get prequalified, which determines how much you can afford. It allows you to move swiftly 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.
Be Clear About What You Want
The next step is to create a realistic idea of the property you'd like to buy. What features are most important to you? Make two lists: one of the items you can't live without and one of the features you would enjoy. Refine the lists as you house hunt. They would make your search more targeted without wasting time on properties that don't meet your expectations. It is also helpful to search online to see what is currently available on the market.
Now you're ready to visit houses and Leslie can begin arrange showings. The real estate experience suggests that you need to keep track of the properties you've seen as explained below.
Rate the Houses You Tour
After touring each home, write down what you liked and didn't like. Develop a rating system that will help narrow the field down. For example, pick the house you like best on day one and compare all other houses to it. When you find a better one, use the new favorite as the standard.
Know the Features That Help or Hurt Resale
In some areas, a swimming pool actually detracts from a home's value and makes it harder to sell. In neighborhoods with two-car, attached garages, a single-car or detached garage may impact the home sale and future value. Leslie can point out features that hurt or help resale value.
Once you've pinpointed your dream house, it's time to get serious about the financial and contractual side of the purchase and make an offer. But remember that you and the seller have different goals so let Leslie be your strong advantage.
Home Inspection
After your offer is accepted, set up a home inspection. It's common to find problems, including leaky roofs, cracked walls, insect infestations and foundation problems. Leslie Ballinger can help find a reputable inspector, and will negotiate to get you the most for your money once the inspector's report is final. If you negotiate repairs as part of the purchase, ask for a "walk through" before finalizing the paperwork. You can talk about home protection plans, which may save you money in the near future.
Close
Before your closing date, make sure you've made all necessary deposits and completed the paperwork - including mortgage, title, homeowners insurance and any other paperwork required by local or state governments. You can count on Leslie Ballinger's help.
And at Last
Before rolling out the welcome mat, consider some moving basics: arranging for an alarm company, turning on electricity, water and gas, cleaning or replacing the carpet, and notifying your local post office of your new address. The best time for renovations is often before you move in.
Congratulations!
The information provided by this website is for the personal, non-commercial use of consumers and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing.
Listings information is updated daily.
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