Buyer’s Resource Center

PRE-QUALIFICATION:

One of our team members will introduce you to a mortgage broker so that you can clearly and concisely know how much you can afford to pay for a new home.

PRE-APPROVAL:

While knowing how much you can afford is the first step, sellers will be much more receptive to potential buyers who have been pre-approved. You’ll also avoid being disappointed when going after homes that are out of your price range. With a Pre-Approval, you, the buyer have applied for a mortgage and you are armed with a commitment in writing from a lender. This way, the seller knows immediately that you are a serious buyer for the potential property. Costs for pre-approval are free or nominal and lenders will usually permit you to pay them when you close on your new home.

LIST OF NEEDS & WANTS:

One of the most important first steps is to create 2 key lists; The first is a NEED-LIST, which should include items you must have (i.e., the number of bedrooms, minimum size of your house to fit your family needs, a one-story house if accessibility is a factor, etc.). The second list is your WISH-LIST, which should include things you would like to have (pool, 3-car garage, double doors, etc.) but that are not absolutely necessary. Realistically you may not get everything on your wish list, but it will keep you on track for what you are looking for. The wish list stays fluid and flexible as the more you look and experience, the more you’ll hone in on the right mix of needs and wants for your future home.

REPRESENTATION BY A PROFESSIONAL:

Consider having a real estate agent who presents clear and open communication, vast experience in the type of home you’re looking for, history of successful real estate negotiations, an interest and dedication to the geography that you’re interested in, and a power team of title companies, real estate attorneys, insurance agents, renovators, contractors, staging professionals, marketing specialists, mortgage brokers and more. You want someone who is not just looking out for you, but can provide the suite of services that you deserve. Our clients are gold and we honor that philosophy every step of the way.

FOCUS & ORGANIZATION:

In a convenient location, keep handy the items that will assist you in maximizing your home search efforts. Such items may include:

• One or more detailed maps with your areas of interest highlighted.
• A file of the properties that your agent has shown to you, along with ads you have cut out from the newspaper.
• Paper and pen, for taking notes as you search.
• Smart phone or video camera to help refresh your memory on individual properties, especially if you are attending a series of showings.
• Location: Look at a potential property as if you are the seller. Would a prospective buyer find it attractive based on school district, crime rate, proximity to positive (shopping, parks, freeway access) and negative (abandoned properties, garbage dump, source of noise) features of the area?

VISUALIZE THE HOUSE EMPTY & WITH YOUR DECOR:

Are the rooms laid out to fit your needs? How can some of the new spaces be utilized best? Is there enough light? How great would you feel in the house with your furniture and decor?

BE THOROUGH:

A little bit of extra time and a few extra dollars spent now may save you big expenses in the long run. Don’t forget such essentials as:

• Include inspection and mortgage contingencies in your written offer, and an appraisal contingency if it’s an all-cash offer.
• Ask for a “Seller’s Disclosure”
• Have the property inspected by an aggressive, licensed inspector with an eye for detail and an excellent track record.
• Never by shy to ask for multiple visits to the property. It is likely you’ll see something new every time you visit the home.
• Request a walk-through to take place within 24 hours of closing.
• You want to check to see that no changes have been made that were not agreed on (i.e., a nice chandelier that you assumed came with the sale having been replaced by a cheap ceiling light).
• You can get creative by raising the purchase price to get money back at closing which can be used for various improvements.