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Buying
or selling a home is one of the most important decisions a
person will have to make in their lifetime. This experience
can be daunting unless you are working together with a professional
real estate broker who understands the process. If you are
thinking of engaging in the buying process feel free to contact
us for our expert advice.
When
Selling a Home:
A seller should never underestimate the importance of making
a good first impression on a potential buyer. Here are a few
simple tips that can help increase your home’s appeal and
value:
An Appealing
Exterior:
- Keep
the front walkway swept
- Remove
newspapers, bikes and toys from the front walk or yard
- Park
extra cars away from the property.
- Trim
back the shrubs
- Apply
a fresh coat of exterior paint if necessary
- Clean
windows and window coverings
- Keep
plumbing and all appliances in working order
- Maintain
all sealants (sink, tub, window, shower, etc.) in good condition
- Make
sure roof and gutters are in good condition
- Mow
the lawn frequently and plant flowers, hire a professional
landscaping company if necessary
A
Clean and Inviting Interior:
- Keep
the kitchen and bathrooms spotless
- Vacuum
carpets and keep floor surfaces clean
- Accent
living and dining rooms with freshly cut flowers
- Put
dishes and laundry away
- Make
beds
- Open
drapes and turn on lights fto enhance the atmosphere
- Keep
closets neat
- Put
toys away
- Switch
off the television.
- Keep
pets out of the way and pet areas clean and odor-free.
- Make
safe jewelry, cash, prescription medication and other valuables.
- Avoid
clutter to enhance the spaciousness of your home
Generally
speaking, potential buyers usually feel more comfortable when
owners are not present. If an interested party is unaccompanied
by an agent and request to see your property, please refer them
to your real estate professional for an appointment. If you
are leaving town, even for a weekend, remember to leave the
number where you can be reached so that offers can be made promptly.
When
Buying a Home:
Your first step in the process of buying a home is to determine
how much you can afford to borrow. A basic rule of thumb is
that a lender will want your monthly mortgage payment to be
no more than 29% of your monthly gross income.
Mortgages and Home
Buying Programs
There are many different kinds of mortgage programs available.
It is best to do some research about the pros and cons of each
program. A real estate broker can help you understand the steps
you will need to take, and can refer you to a reputable mortgage
broker or service. There are also special home buying programs
available from various organizations and many local governments
that offer special home buying programs to help first-time home
buyers and those in a lower income bracket. Get informed - you
may be surprised to discover what you are eligible for!
Determine Your
Search Criteria
Begin your home search by focusing on the location where you
want to buy, and the amenities you want in a home. Determine
how much square footage you want, how many bedrooms and baths
you need, etc. Knowing what you're looking forwill not only
help you focus your search but will also help your real estate
broker understand your needs so that he/she can best assist
you in the process.
Shopping for a
Home
There are several avenues to take once you begin your home search.
Your real estate broker can supply you with listings, based
on your search criteria. You may also look for property on the
Internet, and then ask your broker to set up an appointment
to show you the house. Reading the real estate section of your
local newspaper, or driving around neighborhoods that interest
you is also a viable strategy. It is important to see as many
open houses as possible, so that you can develop an understanding
of the market, and get a solid idea of what is
available in your price range.
The Home Inspection
Once you have made an offer on a home, you will need to schedule
a home inspection, conducted by an independent authorized inspector.
It is extremely import to hire a reputable inspector so that
you know exactly what you are buying. Do not hesitate to ask
friends, family, and co-workers for advice. If you are satisfied
with the results of the inspection, then you can proceed to
the Purchase and Sales agreement. If the inspector finds problems
with the property, you may want to negotiate with the seller
to lower the price, or to pay for certain repairs.
Appraisal
Your lender will require you to get an appraisal of the house
you want to buy, to make sure it is worth the money that you
are borrowing. You may select your own appraiser, or you may
ask your real estate broker to help you with this task.
Homeowner's Insurance
Lenders require that you have homeowners insurance, to protect
both your interests and theirs. Like everything else, be sure
to shop around for insurance that fits your needs.
Settlement or Closing
Finally, you are ready for the closing. Be sure to read everything
before you sign! You should have both your real estate broker
and an attorney present at the closing to ensure that all is
in order. |
