Buying a Home

Contact a REALTOR
As your RE/MAX agent, I can help you through the entire process of buying a home, starting with the mortgage and continuing right through closing – and beyond. I can help you shop for the best interest rate and terms and, if you wish, suggest mortgage lenders.

Get Preapproved for a Loan
Obtain a copy of your credit report and your FICO score and, if necessary, do what you need to do to improve it. The higher your FICO score, the better interest rate you can command. You can get this information online; or as your RE/MAX agent, I can also help you. Contact several lenders and determine which one will give you the best deal.

Determine Your Price Range and Area(s) in Which You're Interested
By now you should have a good idea of how much home you can afford. This helps you narrow down your home search. You should also begin researching the neighborhoods in which you might want to live.

Decide Which Amenities and Features You Must Have – and Which Ones Would Be Nice but not Necessary
How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want? Would you prefer a newer home or an older one with established landscaping? Are hardwood floors a must? Is an updated kitchen important to you? Walk-in closets? Which features would you be willing to give up if you find the otherwise-perfect home?

Begin Testing the Market
Right here on remax.com, you can find listings that meet your criteria as well as neighborhood data. Identify properties that seem to be fits for you, take an afternoon and go on a driving tour. See what's available in your price range and explore neighborhoods.

Begin Seriously Looking at Homes
As your agent, I can assist you in looking seriously at homes. I can add to the list of homes you've already identified – including ones that have just come on the market. Look at homes with a critical eye – does the floor plan work for you, is the property in good condition, would it be right for your lifestyle? In short, can you imagine yourself and your family living there?

Take notes at each home you visit. What do you like and not like? Narrow down your choices; re-visit homes in which you're interested. See them at different times of the day.

Make an Offer
When you've identified the home you want to buy, with my assistance I will help you prepare a written offer quickly. I am familiar with market values and will help you arrive at a price that gives your offer the best chance of being accepted.

At this stage, try not to become emotionally attached to a home. Your offer may not be accepted for any number of reasons. Have backup homes in mind. I will prepare you on how to negotiate with the sellers.

Once Your Offer Is Accepted:

• You'll be asked to submit an earnest money deposit that usually isn't refundable.
• Begin making moving arrangements (select a mover, obtain change-of-address cards, inform friends and relatives).
• Have the property professionally inspected.
• If necessary, request repairs.
• Obtain homeowner's insurance.
• Contact utilities (phone, water, power, etc.).
• A few days before closing, stage a walk-through.
• Obtain a cashier's check for the down payment and closing costs.

At Closing:

• Make sure the terms and conditions of the loan statement are correct.
• Carefully read everything before you sign.

ENJOY YOUR NEW HOME!

Why should you use a REALTOR® in buying a home? Your home is probably the largest investment you’ll make in your lifetime. As an experienced, knowledgeable RE/MAX agent representing you, I can assist you in this transaction process.

Buying a home is not like buying a car, a mutual fund or other commodity. It can be a life-changing event. As your RE/MAX agent, I fully understand the real estate process – and just as important, the local markets.

Of course, I know the right steps to take, but I can also help you avoid a misstep in your home purchase. For example, if you’re unsure about school districts, or builder reputations, I’ll be able to direct you to answers.

As your RE/MAX agent, I also perform another important function: minimizing the emotion involved in your home transaction. You may be in love with a home, but I can point out factors that might not make it right for you.