Simple Steps to Becoming a Successful Home Buyer

1 – Getting Pre-Approved & Choosing a Mortgage Lender

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a crucial step in home buying. Pre-approval helps to show you exactly how much you can afford and in what price range you should be shopping. It also helps you choose what type of mortgage to go with.

2 – Determine Your Wants and Needs

Decide how many bed and bathrooms you and/or your family needs. Determine where you want to live, whether you want to live in town or on acreage out of town. Making a few decisions will help to speed up the property search.

3 – Choose a Real Estate Agent to Work With

Talk to friends who have recently bought or sold a home in the area. Referrals are the best way to choose an agent. You can’t go to the yellow pages and expect to find a good Realtor.

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4 – Time to Start Shopping

Once you have given your agent your lists of wants and needs, he/she will begin the search of the local Board of Realtors to find those listings that fit your criteria.

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5 – Making An Offer

Decide what price you want offer. Determine if you want to put any contingencies on the offer. Your agent should guide you on if you are making a smart offer on a property.

6 – Home Inspections, Appraisals & Other Tests

Once an offer has been accepted it’s now time to have some inspections done on the property. Talk top your agent to find out what type of inspections should be performed on the home.

7 – Avoiding and Settling Last Minute Problems

Your agent will direct you in a few things you should not do when you are in the midst of purchasing a new home or property.  Your agent should also be in contact with the Title Company, Bank as well as the Selling agent to keep informed on the progress of the closing. Familiarize yourself with Title Insurance. This way your agent and yourself will be immediately aware of any problems that may arise.

8 – You’re on the Way to Closing

Most of your home buying problems are behind your now and you are on your way to closing.

Never hesitate to ask questions!

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Please feel free to contact us at 231-941-8283 or email us.