How much home can you afford?
Before looking for a home, decide how much you can afford to spend. Shop around for the loan that is best for your situation and focuses on factors such as interest rate, points and processing costs. Contact your lender for a pre-approval. If you do not have a lender, give us a call for lenders that we work with regularly.
Choose a real estate agent or broker.
A real estate professional can help navigate the home buying process. They can obtain information on homes for sale in the area, set appointments for you to view the homes, explain the local market, and negotiate with the seller on your behalf. If you do not have an agent, contact us for realtors that we work with regularly.
Find a home that's right for you.
Choosing a home involves a great deal of selectivity. It's important and helpful to make lists of features your require and prefer.
Making an offer.
You may choose to set the offering price based on comparable homes on the market, or you can have a professional appraisal done.
Once you settle on a price you must put the offer in writing. This is called a purchase contract or purchase agreement, and will be presented to the seller. Earnest money - or money indicating the seriousness of your offer to purchase - will likely be required when submiting the contract.