In this blog, we’ve talked a lot about how to list and sell
your home. But let’s be honest: You can’t sell a home, obviously, without
buyers.
Compared to seven years ago, the process of buying a home has
changed. There are three things I want you to think about as you consider
buying a home:
1. The mortgage
process is more complex. Mortgages have become more regulated. You definitely
need to hire a mortgage professional, and we can find a great one for you.
There’s more regulation than before, more financial papers to sign and more
financial disclosures. That might sound daunting, but trust me, if everything
is in order, you’ll qualify. And if not, a good mortgage professional can help
put you on the right path.
2. Understand ALL of
your buying costs. You need to understand all of the costs associated with
buying a home. For first-time homebuyers, you need be sure that you have set
aside money in an escrow account for taxes. There are other costs, too, that
you probably haven’t considered. You have to reimburse the seller for any oil left
in the heating oil tank, for example. And these types of expenses can run from
a couple of thousand to several thousand dollars. Trust me: You DON’T want to
be caught at the closing table with the wrong amount written on your check.
3. Make a list of
everything you want in your home. List everything you can’t live without
and list items you can live without but that you’d like to have. Bring that
list with you and show your agent and communicate openly. We aren’t mind
readers, so tell us what’s on your mind. When you are walking through a home,
talk a lot. Explain what you like or don’t like and tell us why. This will help
us help you look at a few ideas for your needs rather than dozens that might
not be.
When you are ready to start home shopping, give us a call or
drop us an email. As one of the top real estate agencies in the area, we are
eager to help you find your dream home.
