The home buying process –
Step 4 – View properties
You have done the work to get preapproved. You have taken the time to narrow down your search criteria for a home. Now the fun begins!
Step 4 in the home buying process is viewing properties. We can view all properties in the mls and some not listed in the mls. Real estate agents sell other broker listings, for sale by owner properties and new construction.
You will coordinate days and times to view properties with your real estate agent. The homes for sale have lockboxes on the doors that we use to access a property. I show homes 7 days a week from 9 am until 9 pm. That is the timeframe the lockboxes are set. We do have to set appointments to view properties even if they are vacant.
Your real estate agent has some work to do setting up the appointments so a little notice (24 hr.) is helpful. The real estate agent will print the listings, map a route and call to make the showing requests. Some rearranging may need to be done as not all properties may confirm the appointment.
Usually a one hour time period has been scheduled. This allows for time to drive to and view properties. Sellers will have taken the time to clean their home and leave for the showing time period. I like to quickly view the inside of the home even if you don’t care the outside. The time has been scheduled and it would throw the rest of the showing times off. Buyers may drive by homes to view the outside prior to adding them to the showing list if they have any doubts about a property.
Once all the confirmations are in, the real estate agent will let you know where you will start to view homes. Buyers will meet their real estate agent at the first property on their list and follow them to the subsequent homes. Make sure to fill your gas tank prior to starting the showings.
Dress for the weather. You may be requested to remove your shoes when entering a home, especially if it has been raining or snowing. Buyers will want to walk around the outside of the property. Wear a coat and gloves if it is cold out. Bring an umbrella for rainy weather. Is your foot wear appropriate (snow=boots)?
Be prepared for a full day … depending on the number of homes you are viewing. Buyers may want to have some snacks and something to drink packed. Don’t be afraid to let your real estate agent know if you need to stop and use a restroom.
Viewing homes is exciting and fun. Keep in mind that as you view homes your criteria in what you want in a home will change. It is a normal part of the process. Don’t worry about how many homes you view. It doesn’t matter if you view one home or fifty homes. You will get a feeling about the home that is right for you.
The home buying process - 14 Steps to buying a home
The home buying process –
Step 1: Choose a lender and get preapproved
The Home Buying Process –
Step 2 – Choose a Real Estate Agent
The home buying process –
Step 3 ~ Select properties
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