Purchasing your home in Topton

Buying a home can be stressful for many people, but with some planning ahead of time, it's not very difficult. I like to furnish buyers with a road map of the whole deal so they'll know exactly what they can expect. Below are my nine steps to buying a home. When you're ready to get started, you can contact me here or e-mail me at . I'm glad to answer questions you have regarding this information.

Step 1 – Get ready to buy
There are many things you'll want to contemplate prior to beginning your home search. It's likely that you'll want to make a list of must-have features, get a plan of what neighborhoods you'd like to live in, and begin planning your budget. A good guideline to adhere to is that your mortgage payment should be less than 30 percent of your monthly income.

Step 2 – Speak with a real estate agent in Topton
That's where I come in. I'd be happy to schedule a time to meet with you and speak with you about your real estate needs and get an idea of your upcoming plans. We'll talk about the mortgage and housing industries, other economic factors that could potentially affect your purchase today or in the future, as well as neighborhoods and school districts in the Topton area.

I'll also help you get started on your loan. I work with some of the best mortgage professionals in Topton, so you can rest assured that you're in great hands. They can help you choose which type of loan is best for you, as well as help you get approved.

Step 3 – Begin your search
Following our first meeting, I'll begin finding houses on the market that suit your needs. I'll preview most of the homes and remove the duds, and then we'll set up appointments to tour the homes whenever it's most convenient for you.

As we view the houses, I'll show you the positive features and bad ones. I'll also ask you to point out what things you like and dislike. It's common for buyers to change their must-have list as we view houses and some features become more necessary than others. If that happens, I'll search all the listings another time and trim it down to the home you've been waiting for.

Step 4 – Understand the market
My awareness of the Topton housing market is a crucial component in your house search. I am mindful of all the neighborhoods and school districts, and I'll communicate which areas are "hot" and warrant prompt action and some that are "cold" and allow for careful consideration.

When we tour homes, I'll be sure to tell you when the list price has room for negotiation and also when I believe the house is "priced to sell." Be on guard and make sure you ask your agent plenty of questions, as every REALTOR in Topton will convince you they truly know the market. If it appears they don't know everything, call me at 8283213101 or e-mail me at , and I'd be more than happy to answer your questions. My market knowledge will keep you a step above the rest through the entire process.

Step 5 – Find the house you've been looking for
We'll find your dream house in the Topton area, and when that happens, I'll carefully develop your purchase offer. The offer will be tailored keeping your needs in mind and the home, including some contingencies. A few examples are getting financing, finishing the inspection, and a clean title.

Upon presenting your offer, you'll need to submit "earnest money." This is a cash deposit given to a home seller to secure an offer to purchase the property and is usually applied to the cost of closing. If the offer is accepted by the seller, we should close within 30 to 60 days afterward. This allows enough time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate
Unfortunately most deals don't close on the beginning offer, and it's extremely common to receive a counter offer. But don't let it intimidate you. We'll talk about whether or not to accept the counter offer, propose our own counter offer, or reject the seller's offer and move on.

Market circumstances will play a large role in how aggressively we negotiate the contract. In addition, we'll work within your budget. And when it's all said and done, we'll create a deal that's best for you.

Step 7 – Secure financing
Once the contract is finalized, you'll begin working with your lender to close the loan. This shouldn't take long at all if you're pre-approved, but you should to stay in close contact with your lender. And I'll handle all the property information your mortgage lender will need to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
You'll get a Loan Estimate (LE) detailing closing costs from your lender within three days of accepting your application. The estimate is based on the loan amount, and RESPA requirements mandate that it has to involve all closing costs and be within a narrow range of accuracy. I'll examine the estimate and let you know if it all looks okay.

Then we'll close on your house. This will most often take place at a title company or escrow office and will most likely be a smooth and peaceful occasion.

Step 9 – Move in
Congratulations! It's time to move into your new house. Enjoy it. And if you need anything, be sure to contact me at 8283213101 or e-mail me at .