Buying or selling a home?

Buying a home is stressful for a lot of people. However, with a bit of planning ahead of time, it isn't all that hard. So they'll know exactly what to expect, I like to supply buyers with an overview of the whole deal. Below are my nine steps to buying a home. Should you have questions regarding this information or if you're ready to get started, just contact me here or e-mail me at .

Step 1 – Prepare to buy
There are several things you need to contemplate before commencing your home search. When you begin your search, you'll probably want to make a check list of features you need to have, get a feel for what school districts and neighborhoods you want to live in, and begin working on your budget. A good rule of thumb to follow is that your mortgage payment should be around 1/3 of your monthly income.

Step 2 – Communicate with a real estate agent
This is where I can help. We can schedule a time to get together so we can talk about your real estate needs and get an idea of your future plans. We'll talk about neighborhoods, school districts in the Topton area, the mortgage and housing industries, and any additional economic factors that could potentially affect your buying decision today or in the future.

I'll also help you begin the loan process. There are some great mortgage professionals in Topton, and I partner with a lot of them, so you're in great hands. They can assist you in deciding which type of loan is best for you and help you get approved.

Step 3 – Begin your home search
After we meet for the first time, I'll begin searching for available homes on the market that are good for you. I'll research most of the homes and throw out the duds, and then we'll set up appointments to view the houses when it's convenient for you.

When we view the houses, I'll point out good features, as well as bad ones. And I'll ask you to talk about things you like and don't like. Oftentimes, buyers update their wish list as we view houses and some items become far more essential than others. If such is the case, I'll search the listings once again and narrow it down to the house you've been wishing for.

Step 4 – Understand the market
My awareness of the Topton housing market is an essential factor in your home search. I am informed of all the school districts and neighborhoods, and I'll alert you to some districts are "hot" and demand immediate action and the ones that are "cold" and allow for thoughtful consideration.

When we view houses, I'll make sure to communicate if the seller's list price has room for negotiation or if I believe the home is "priced to sell." Be on guard and make sure you ask your agent a lot of questions, as any REALTOR in Topton will claim to understand the home market. If it appears they don't know everything, contact me at 8283213101 or e-mail me at , and I'll be glad to answer any questions you may have. My market knowledge will help you stay a step ahead through the entire deal.

Step 5 – Find the home you've been waiting for
We'll find your dream house in the Topton area, and when we do, I'll thoroughly create your purchase offer. The offer will be made to fit your needs and the home. We'll include several contingencies, such as getting financing, finishing the inspection, and a clear title.

When we present your purchase offer, you'll want to submit "earnest money." This is a cash deposit submitted to the home seller to secure an offer to buy the property. The amount is typically put towards the closing costs. If your offer is accepted by the seller, we should close about 30 to 60 days after. This allows sufficient time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate the deal
Unfortunately most contracts don't close on the initial offer – it's really common to receive a counter offer. Don't let this alarm you. We'll discuss whether or not to accept the counter offer, submit our own counter offer, or decline the seller's offer and move on.

Market conditions will play a vital role in how aggressively we negotiate the contract. We'll also work within your financing constraints. And at the end of the day, we'll create a contract that is best for you.

Step 7 – Obtain financing
After the contract is finished, you'll begin working with your mortgage lender to close the loan. If you've been pre-approved, this shouldn't take much time at all. However, you'll need to stay in close contact with your mortgage lender. And I'll deal with all the property information your lender needs to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
You'll get a Loan Estimate (LE) detailing your closing costs from your lender within three days of getting your application. The estimate rests on the loan amount, and RESPA requirements mandate that it has to include all closing costs and fall within a tight range of accuracy. I'll study the estimate and let you know if it all looks permissible.

Then it's time to close on your home. This will most likely happen at a title company or escrow office and will most often be a smooth and stress-free event.

Step 9 – Move in
Congratulations! Now you can move into your new home. Enjoy it. And if you need anything, make sure you call me at 8283213101 or e-mail me at .