Your Agent
Select your agent wisely! Make sure that they own their own home. Otherwise how can they appreciate what you will go through during the buying process? If you are also going to be selling your current home, as well, try to find an agent that will coordinate the entire process for you, both buying and selling. You need a seasoned and experienced professional to keep the process on track, so your stress will be kept to the minimum. Here is what others have said about me.
How Much Do You Want To Spend?
Online mortgage calculators are a good place to start, but as you get closer to being ready to buy, there is no substitute for a written mortgage pre-approval. I can't stress enough the importance of this step. This is the only way to really get an in-depth picture of your overall financial picture and to discover exactly what you can reasonably afford to spend on a home. I have a few lenders that do very good work for my clients.
Check Out the Marketplace
The internet can be incredibly valuable in doing research, but make sure you use a site that will tie you directly into the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Start with your agent – he or she can direct you to valuable resources and immediately start e-mailing you real estate listings that may interest you.
Needs and Wants
What do you like about your current home? What do you want from your new home that you don't have now? Do you need a bigger kitchen area for the family to gather? Compose a list of needs/wants, your wish list. Then present it to your agent for a list of homes available in your price range that satisfy your needs/wants.
Find Your Dream Home!
Once you’re prepared and ready to act, you may be surprised by how quickly you will find a new home. In today's competitive real estate market, preparation is everything. If you work within my proven system, you will be prepared...without spending money on gas and putting needless miles on your car. I guarantee it!
With the right team behind you, it really can be that easy!
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