Get pre-approved for a mortgage - Obtain a Credit report, and possibly a FICO score. Learn about different types of mortgages, shop for best rates and programs.
Determine your wants and needs - Style of home, size, price, location.
Seek out an exclusive buyer's agent - Compare the services of different agents and look for good personal chemistry.
Search for homes in the MLS - Sign up for email notification services at a website which will allow you to be informed of properties which will meet your wants and needs. Some websites send any properties which fit your criteria (price, # of Bedrooms, etc.) - we can look at each qualifying property before sending it to you to eliminate ones which obviously won't work.
Check out the neighborhood, schools, zoning, and work commute - You can rely on our expertise and in-company resources. Check this website for helpful information.
Do the due diligence and research on your property of interest - Learn about any zoning changes, liens, easements, or other restrictions which might effect your use of the property. Your Buyer agent can be a great help with their knowledge of the area and local regulations.
Prepare the offer and negotiate - We can prepare a property value study and ask the seller, or their agent, if there are any other offers and his motivation for selling, deadlines, etc. It must be noted that in many cases the selling agency will not be giving out information that might be helpful for the Buyer as they are trying to get the best deal for their client.
Arrange financing - Now is the time to apply for a mortgage or, if paying cash, be sure that your accounts are in order.
Conduct the home inspections and other inspections - Take advantage of the inspection contingencies in your offer and get thorough inspections to eliminate any surprises after you move in to your new home.
Retain an Attorney - Your offer should include the option to have an attorney review your contract. Your attorney will also be doing the title search and possibly conducting the closing.
Walk-through inspection prior to closing - Visit your new home before you sit down at the closing table to make sure everything is as you expect it to be.
Closing - Make sure you have coordinated all aspects of closing with your various support personnel. Your buyer agent can help you do this. You will need to arrange to have whatever portion of the transaction costs you are not borrowing to be available in an acceptable form and will most likely need to have your drivers license with you for identification purposes.
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