Buying a Home
Whether you've spent years saving and preparing to buy a home, or are unsure if you can afford it, the questions surrounding a house purchase can feel endless.
You can find the answers - and peace of mind - by working with RE/MAX, the industry leader in experience and service.
Here are some tips to help you become your own landlord.
- Hire a real estate professional.
The first step is to select a professional to help you find your dream home and fine-tune your financial expectations. Working with a buyer agent is worth consideration since he or she is legally responsible for representing the buyer's interest in a real estate transaction. Your RE/MAX Associate can guide you through every step to buying a home.
- Shop for mortgage rates and terms.
A difference of even half a percentage point can mean a huge savings over the life of a loan.
- Prequalify for a loan.
Your third step should be to get prequalified, which determines how much you can afford. It allows you to move swiftly when you find the right home and it indicates to the seller that you are serious and really can afford to buy the property.
- Define what you want.
The next step is to create a realistic idea of the property you'd like to buy. What features are most important to you? Make two lists: one of the items you can't live without and one of the features you would enjoy. Refine the lists as you house hunt.
- Visit properties.
Now you're ready to visit houses. Ask your RE/MAX Associate to arrange showings, and keep track of the properties you've seen. After touring each home, write down what you liked and didn't like. Develop a rating system that will help narrow the field down.
- Make an offer.
Once you've pinpointed your dream house, it's time to get serious about the financial and contractual side of the purchase. Your RE/MAX Associate will be a strong advantage since you and the seller have different goals.
- Close.
Before your closing date, make sure you've made all necessary deposits and completed the paperwork - including mortgage, title, homeowners insurance and any other paperwork required by local or state governments.
- Enjoy your new home!
