| Home Buying Tips-RE/MAX |
Whether you've spent years saving and preparing to buy a home, or you're unsure
if you can afford it, the questions surrounding home buying 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 through home buying.
- Hire a real estate professional.
An important first step is
selecting a home buying professional to help you find your dream home and
fine-tune your financial expectations. Working with a buyer agent is worth
consideration because he or she is legally responsible for representing the
buyer's interest in a real estate transaction. Before making a decision,
however, have a REALTOR® explain the pros and cons of using a buyer agent versus
a dual agent. Your RE/MAX Associate can guide you through every step of home
buying.
- Shop for mortgage rates and terms.
A difference of even half a
percentage point can mean a considerable savings over the life of a loan. For
example, the difference in the monthly payment on a $100,000 mortgage at 8
percent vs. 7.5 percent is about $35 per month. Over 30 years, that's
$12,600.
- Prequalify for a loan.
Also early on, you'll want to get
prequalified for a mortgage loan, which determines how much you can afford. It
allows you to move swiftly when you find the right home, especially when there
are other interested buyers. It also indicates to the seller that you are
serious about home buying and can afford to buy the property.
- Outline what you want.
The next step in home buying 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. It is
also helpful to search online to see what is currently available on the market.
Your real estate professional can then show you houses that meet your
expectations.
- Visit properties.
Now you're ready to visit houses. Ask your
RE/MAX Associate to help in your home buying process by arranging showings. Be
sure to keep track of the properties you've seen. Each time you venture out to
see more properties, revisit your notes to immediately eliminate any that
clearly do not meet your standards.
- Know the features that help or hurt resale.
In some areas, a
swimming pool actually detracts from a home's value and makes it harder to sell.
In neighborhoods with two-car, attached garages, a single-car or detached garage
may affect the home buying prospects and future value. Your RE/MAX professional
can point out features that hurt or help resale value.
- Rate the houses you tour.
After touring each home, write down what
you liked and didn't like. Develop a rating system that will help narrow the
home buying field. For example, pick the house you like best on day one and
compare all other houses to it. When you find a better one, use the new favorite
as the standard. Avoid trying to track more than four top choices at any given
time since this can quickly become overwhelming.
- 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. Let
your RE/MAX Associate guide you through this sensitive home buying process.
Because you and the seller have different goals, rely on your RE/MAX agent's
experience and expertise to bring order and calm to the process - and help both
parties reach a favorable outcome.
- Arrange for a home inspection.
After your offer is accepted, set
up a home inspection. It's common to find problems, including leaky roofs,
cracked walls, insect infestations and foundation problems. Your real estate
professional can help find a reputable inspector, and will negotiate to get you
the most for your money once the inspector's report is final. If you negotiate
repairs as part of the purchase, ask for a "walk through" before finalizing the
home buying paperwork. Ask your real estate expert about home protection plans,
which may save you money in the near future.
- Close.
Before your closing date, make sure you've made all
necessary deposits and completed the paperwork - including mortgage, title,
homeowner's insurance and any other paperwork required by local or state
governments when home buying. Your RE/MAX agent will be there to help you
complete that closing checklist and avoid any last-minute snags. You deserve to
enjoy every moment of the home buying process.
- Prepare for life in your new home.
Before rolling out the welcome
mat, consider some moving basics: arranging for an alarm company, turning on
electricity, water and gas, cleaning or replacing the carpet, and notifying your
local post office of your new address. The best time for renovations is often
before you move in.
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| Plm-Sysd Hill SW |
| This 3 br and 2 ba home needs a home!! Some great work and updates have been completed, and it is a great investment or opportunity home on a large lot with a view... Home is over 1600 square feet, some new carpet, flooring and windows, refurbished 3/4 bath . Please call for a showing or information!! Melinda dutton, re/max home and land 509.432.5329. |
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| Plm-Sysd Hill SW |
| Quality and attention to details distinguish this fine bobo construction home. Abundant square footage on the main--4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths--with gorgeous finishes--hand-scraped birch flooring, granite, tile, stainless steel appliances, fantastic views, hi-grade, hi-efficiency heating and cooling...all this *Plus*A full walk-out unfinished basement for you to finish out as you wish. |
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| Plm-Mil Hill NW |
| This custom built home has a unique floor plan and outstanding features. Huge gourmet kitchen with maple cabinets and tile floors.grand entry includes beautiful antique chandelier. The panoramic view is unsurpassed. Master suite on main includes sun, view and privacy.a flex room off the entry will make great home office, dining room, den, etc. The large upstairs is perfect for family or guests.upgraded roofing and plumbing for 2 more fireplaces make this home perfect. |
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