3 TIPS FOR HAPPY HOME SHOPPING
|
Choose the right real estate agent! This one is so important we had to get it out there before we even started the list! The value of the relationship between an agent and a home buyer cannot be overstated. Finding an agent who understands your personal real estate needs and your family’s schedule is so important as you make this first step into buying a new home. Hint – the real estate agents at Becky Hancock Realty are top notch and dedicated to personal service. We know Enterprise and the Fort Rucker area real estate like the backs of our hands and we are dedicated to making you a happy buyer. See what our buyers are saying about our service. 1 – Do your HOMEwork. Unlike our school days, this homework is fun. Check our online listings to get an idea of the value of the homes for sale in the area that fit your needs and wish list. Use a mortgage calculator to determine how the new house is going to affect your wallet. You don’t want to be “house poor” by spending too much money on your mortgage and maintenance. It’s a common affliction and the sufferers miss out on things like dining out and good vacations. We don’t want you to go there.
2 – Prefinance. Getting pre-approved makes you a cash buyer. 3 – Organize yourself. Figure out a good way to organize your files for the paperwork that will be coming your way. You’ll be receiving correspondence from your real estate agent electronically or by phone so jot your notes down and store them in a place where you can put your hands on them in a snap. Being organized will also help you to be johnny-on-the-spot when your real estate agent calls with a new listing that might require fast action.
Before you buy: •Submit a strong competitive offer. •Include a substantial earnest money deposit. Sometimes offers are accepted based on the amount of the deposit. •Try to minimize the number of contingencies. Fewer contingencies mean a stronger offer. •Hire an inspector. A professional building inspector will tell you if the house of your choice is in satisfactory condition. •Check zoning regulations and covenants. Good residential neighborhoods will be zoned to keep out commercial and industrial users. Read any restrictive covenants and make sure they fit your lifestyle. •Request an updated property survey. Be sure it clearly marks boundaries. Check for problems. •Make sure you know what stays or goes.Your contract should be very specific about which items (appliances, etc) are included in the sale. •Get agreements in writing. Make certain verbal agreements are written into the final contract to avoid any stressful and expensive issues later. |
 |
The following articles provide useful information and are a great place to start if you're considering buying a home.