Are you considering purchasing your first home? The home buying process can be a little tricky if this is your first time. There is a lot of small and detailed information you don't want to miss, it can cost you a lot of money. We have created a simple home buying process for first-time owners like you. Even if this is not your first time purchasing a home, there are always new policies coming so you should consider learning about it before it is too late. We have created a simple 5 step guide for the home buying process.
Every homeowner is unique as to what they want in a home (neighborhood, size of the home, number of bedrooms, etc). The next important step is getting prequalified, this can determine if you can get into a home faster, keep in mind that a seller wants to sell their home to a reliable buyer and the approval process can be lengthy at times.
Things to consider before you buy
Before you purchase a home, we will talk to you about a few different things including:
What do you want in a home?
To save time, and energy, take some time to think about a few things you want (or do not want) in your home. Some things to consider:
We will likely ask you to complete an outline so we can help you find the home you want. Typically, we will ask questions about the size, location, number of rooms etc., so we can narrow down your search options.
Getting Prequalified
Have a plan!
The housing market can be quite competitive. Have a plan before you start looking at homes so you do not miss out a property you really love. Make sure everyone is on board (including family or friends you want to include in the decision-making) before you start looking.
Before you head out to look at homes, know that you may need to make a fast offer if you love a property that is getting a lot of attention. You can help improve your chances by remembering:
The fun part: looking for a home
Once you have been preapproved, you get to do the fun part of browsing homes and finally making an offer on the property you want. You have a few options for checking out homes.
Working with a real estate agent will be a major help when it comes time to view properties. We work with other agents to get access to the homes when you want to see them. If owners of the home you like still live in the house, you may need to give at least 24-hours-notice before a tour. We can help.
The Final Details
Once you have found a home you really like, you can make an offer. Your real estate agent will determine the value of the home based on other homes in the area and recent sales prices. We can then help you determine a fair offer.
The seller may either accept your offer or counter it. If they counter your offer, we will come back to you and let you know their terms. You can accept the new terms or offer another compromise. Once the buyer and seller reach an agreement, we start the escrow process and submit your good faith deposit to the title company.
The lender:
Once an offer has been accepted, we will send a copy of the contract to your lender. The lender will enter everything into the computer and create a calendar to determine when you and the seller must complete certain steps (appraisal, inspection etc.). This calendar is vital. If you miss a deadline, you may have to start all the way over.
Your lender will order an appraisal and give you a cost breakdown including approximate mortgage payment, as well as an amount for any funds you need to bring to the closing.
The inspections:
You can have the home inspected any time after you make an offer. If you find any problems with the property (termites etc.), we will send notifications to the seller. You have 17 days to complete the inspection.
Closing statements and final walk-through
After escrow is complete, our agents will review all of the paperwork to make sure everything is accurate. Then we will schedule an appointment with you and the title company to fill out the final paperwork.
During your final walk-through, you can check to make sure all requested repairs are finished. We will provide extra information including utility information and mail forwarding and get the keys. Once the title is completed (and filed with the county), you can move into your new home!
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