There are over 150 variables and/or steps when it comes to purchasing a home and most buyers I meet want to start at the fun part, looking at homes, but you are missing some very important steps! If you are even thinking about buying a home, here are some of the most important steps explained.
1. Reach out to your favorite realtor
Your Realtor can make a big difference when it comes time to buy a house. You want to find someone that you click with and trust. They can make or break your home buying experience! A great agent will listen carefully to your priorities and what you’re looking for. You don’t want just a real estate agent, you want an EXPERT! An expert will know the market you are looking in and can manage the 150 variables through the entire process. Not to mention, if you are searching public websites, you are not getting accurate listings, you are only going to get those if you are working with an agent. If you don’t have one in mind already, start by talking with your friends and family, lots of people have had an experience with a realtor. Ask for referrals. Another place to look is Facebook. Who is your local expert in the area? Who is posting listings and expert advice on a regular basis? Another option is Zillow, or simply search for local agents online.
2. Buyer Consultation
There are over 150 unique variables when purchasing a home. The great agents will offer a buyer consult. We’ll use this time to get to know each other. We will sit down and talk about what you and your family are looking for in your new home. Then I will explain each step of the process and answer all your questions. This will prepare you so when you start looking at homes and find one you love, you are AHEAD of the game and ready to go.
3. Lender Consultation
A lender consultation is important to get you pre-approved for a mortgage loan. During the lender consultation, you will discuss what is needed in order to obtain a loan. You will learn what loan type would be best for your situation. You may be asked to provide some financial documentation and they will pull your credit score. This preapproval step is crucial. No one likes to waste time, if you are out looking at homes and have not completed this step, you may be wasting your time, the agent’s time, and the seller’s time. Some properties won’t qualify for certain loan types. You need to be clear on the kind of loan and the amount before an agent knows what homes to show you. Most sellers will not even look at an offer without a preapproval letter. If you need a lender recommendation, ask your Realtor!
4. Start looking at homes
Your real estate agent will work side by side with you to find homes that fit your needs, lifestyle and budget. He or She will stay in contact with you providing you with homes that fit your unique interests. You will be able to take this time to walk through different homes that you like with your agent in order to find exactly what you’re looking for, and not looking for.
5. Make an offer
This is super easy and painless if you attend a buyer consult!
6. Move in
Pack your boxes and get settled into that beautiful home that you’ve hand-picked with your agent.
Click to watch a video! Interview with Bo
