Real Estate Home Buying Tips

Buying a new home can be quite an endeavor. As an experienced industry leader, we will offer you superior service, sound council and pertinent information to help you decide on the home that's right for you.

The importance of getting pre-approved

Pre-approval enables you to confidently search for a home within a designated price range, knowing you will be able to afford it. Pre-approval also shows the seller that you're a serious buyer who is ready to move forward. Offers from pre-approved buyers will be weighed more heavily than those from buyers who have not started working with a lender.

Work with a buyer’s agent

They will advocate for your needs throughout the process. While the seller’s broker can complete paperwork on your behalf, they will not be able to advise you or negotiate for you. Working with a buyer’s agent is 100% free—the buyer’s agent is paid 2.5% of the sale price at closing by the seller.

Create a wish list

It’s important to make a list of all the features you want in your new home, from what’s in it to where it’s located. Next step is prioritizing this list so that you can find something in your budget that meets your most important needs.

Plan for the next few years

Buying a home is an investment and yields great tax deductions. You’ll want to hold onto your home for at least two years to avoid paying a capital gain tax when you sell it.

Don’t overextend yourself

While homes with big price tags can be very appealing, it’s best to stay within your budget. Staying conservative on price will allow you to set more money aside for furnishings, future maintenance and general living expenses.

Don’t go to an open house unrepresented

When you go “just to look” and don’t have broker representation, the seller’s broker can claim that they are your broker. If you decided to put in a bid, you won’t get the advantage of having someone in your corner like you do when you have a buyer’s agent.

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