Buyer Tips
The home buying process can seem overwhelming and complicated but with Karen Arbutine & Associates and RE/MAX by your side you will soon be holding the keys to your new home.
We would like to offer you some tips on what you can expect during the home buying process.
Hire a Real Estate Professional
Selecting a home buying professional is the first step toward finding your dream home within your personal budget. A REALTOR® is legally responsible for representing the buyer's interest in a real estate transaction. However, if you are unsure, ask a REALTOR® explain the pros and cons of using a buyer agent as opposed to a dual agent. Karen Arbutine & Associates with RE/MAX Central Realty are prepared to guide you throughout this process.
Shop for Mortgage Rates and Terms?
Surprisingly, only a half a percentage point can result in considerable savings over the life of a loan. For example, the monthly difference payment on a $100,000 mortgage at 8% vs. 7.5% is about $35 per month. That's $12,600 over 30 years!
Prequalify for a Loan
In order to determine how much you can afford, you will want to attempt getting qualified for a mortgage loan early on in your search for a home. Beyond determining you budget, it can also help you move more quickly when you choose a home that has other interested buyers. Being prequalified for a loan indicates to the seller that you can afford to buy their property and are serious about moving forward.
Outline What you Want
Creating a realistic idea of features that are important to you will help you have a realistic idea of the property you would like to buy. A helpful tool is making lists of features you can’t live without and features you would enjoy then refine as you go. Don’t forget to search online to see what is currently available on the market! Once you have an idea of what you are after Karen Arbutine & Associates can also send you new Lake Mary Fl homes for sale as they enter the market.
Visit Properties
Now is the fun part Karen Arbutine & Associates will arrange showings for the homes you would like to see. Be sure to keep track of the properties you've seen and take detailed notes of likes and dislikes as you will want to go back and review them at a later date. Your memory may begin to trick you as the list of houses you view gets longer. Each time you visit more properties, revisiting your notes can help immediately eliminate any that clearly do not meet your standards.
Know the Features that Help or Hurt Resale
Resell value can be hard to understand. For example, in some areas a swimming pool actually detracts from a home's value. In neighborhoods with attached, two-car garages, a single-car or detached garage may make the home less desirable. Your RE/MAX professional can point out features that hurt or help resale value.
Rate the Homes you Tour
As we said above, take notes after examining each home and write down both what you liked and disliked about it. Developing a rating system can be a quick way to narrow the home buying field. For example, pick the house you like best from the beginning and compare all other houses to it. If or when you find a better one, use the new favorite as your standard. Avoid trying to track more than four top choices at one time as this can become overwhelming.
Make an Offer
Once you've chosen your dream house, you will need to get serious about the financial and contractual portion of the purchase. Karen Arbutine & Associates will guide you through this sensitive process. You should rely on your RE/MAX agent's experience and expertise to help both the buyer and seller reach their goals and ultimately a favorable outcome.
Arrange For a Home Inspection
After your offer is accepted, have the home inspected. Common problems include leaky roofs, cracked walls, insect infestations and foundation problems. Luckily, your REALTOR® can help find a reputable inspector and may be able to negotiate to get you more for your money once the inspector's report is final. If repairs have been included as part of the purchase, ask your real estate professional for a "walk through" before finalizing the home buying paperwork. Also, don’t forget to ask about home protection plans, which may save you money in the future.
Close
Before you close on your home, make sure you've made all necessary deposits and completed the paperwork - including mortgage, title, homeowner's insurance and any other paperwork required by local or state governments. Your RE/MAX agent will be there to help you complete your closing checklist and avoid any last-minute complications. We feel that you deserve to enjoy every moment of your home buying process.
Prepare for Life in Your New Home
Before you order your moving truck, consider some moving basics: arranging for an alarm company, turning on electricity, water and gas, cleaning or replacing the carpet, and notifying the post office of your new address. The best time for renovations is often before you move in.
If you are ready to begin the home buying process, contact Karen Arbutine & Associates at 888.727.7778 they will help you find the answers - and give you peace of mind.
