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- Hire a real estate professional.
The first step is to select a professional to help you find your dream home and fine-tune your housing expectations. With Tracy's experience and expertise, she can guide you through every step of the home-buying process.
- Prequalify for a loan.
Your second step should be to get prequalified.
It allows you to move swiftly when you find the right home,
especially when there are other interested buyers. It also indicates to the person selling the home, that you are serious
and really can afford to buy the property.
- Shop for mortgage rates and terms.
A difference of even half a percentage point can make
a huge difference in how much you pay over the life of a loan. Use
my mortgage calculator to estimate the monthly cost on your dream home.
- Define what you want.
The next step is to create a realistic idea of the property you'd like to buy.
What parts of the home are most important to you? Decide which items you can not live without,
and which items are for enjoyment. Use this list to find the home that best suits
your personal needs.
- Visit properties.
Now you're ready to visit houses. Ask Tracy to
arrange showings and keep track of the properties you've seen.
- Know the features that help or hurt resale.
Detached garages and old swimming pools can affect a home's value. Tracy can point out those
features that hurt and those that help resale value.
- Rate the houses you tour.
When touring each home, write down things you liked and didn't like.
For example, pick the house you like best on day one and compare all other houses to it.
When you find a better one, use the new favorite as the standard.
- Make an offer.
Once you have found your dream house, it's time to get serious
about the financial side of the purchase. Tracy will work with you to negotiate price and tearms.
- Arrange for a home inspection.
After your offer is accepted, set up a home inspection. It's common to
find problems, including leaky roofs, cracked walls, insect infestations
and foundation problems.
Tracy can help you find a professional inspector and will negotiate problems if necessary. Ask Tracy about home protection plans, which may save you money in the near future.
- Close.
Before your closing date, Tracy will make sure all necessary deposits and paperwork are completed; including mortgage papers, title, homeowners
insurance
and any other paperwork required by local or state governments.
- Prepare for life in your new home.
Before rolling out the welcome mat, consider some moving basics: Arrange to have electricity, water and gas. Clean or replace carpets. Notify your local post office of your new address. Notify your friends and family of your new address. Don't forget…relax and enjoy!!
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