A few years ago when the real estate market was sizzling hot, buyers were happy to find a house they could afford, and with prices spiraling upward, almost any house would do.
Today, buyers have many choices, and it can be overwhelming to sift through the plethora of properties available.
Here are my Simple Steps for Success:
First, meet with a professional and determine what you can afford, and whether you need to sell your current home before you purchase a new one. Your lender of choice will give you a pre-approval letter stating you are qualified to purchase a home up to a certain dollar amount. This letter will accompany your offer and can be updated as necessary.
Next, narrow your search down to a few communities based on:
1. Location
2. Commute
3. Schools
4. Other amenities important to your lifestyle
Now you're ready to begin some serious searching. There are many online sites available, and many are useful during the initial stages of house hunting, but once you have narrowed your search to a few communities, an agent can send you a daily list of homes tailored to your specific criteria (price, location, amenities) and save you hours of scrolling though online sites.
Your agent will schedule appointments to show you only the homes that meet your specific needs. You will receive new listings, price reductions and other vital information on a daily basis. It's a great way to become an educated buyer with very little time invested in searching through cyberspace for your little piece of the earth.
More Buyer's Tips from Norma!
Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty
(310) 493-8333 / Office Phone: (310) 831-0800
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Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Estate Properties
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South Bay Los Angeles cities I sell real estate, property, houses and homes in: Palos Verdes Estates, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, San Pedro, Long Beach, Torrance, Lomita, Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach. Based on information from the Association of REALTORS®/Multiple Listing as of the initial date of this article/blog publication and /or other sources. Display of MLS data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS. The Broker/Agent providing the information contained herein may or may not have been the Listing and/or Selling Agent.
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5 Comments on Searching Through Cyberspace for a Place to Call Home
Norma, very informative article. That is the perfect navigation for buying. If you or anyone you know are in the market for REO's. I can help you!
I agree with Keith, that you nailed this one. Good guide Norma. Thanks!
Keith - As agents, one of the most valuable services we provide is navigating buyers through the process of locating and purchasing a home.
Kyle - This post was inspired by a buyer who confessed she looked online for months before seeking the guidance and expertise of an agent. I told her I do this all day long, and that's why she doesn't have to stay up all night trying to find a house on her own.
I think the internet has been such a tremendous asset for consumers to educate themselves. I know home buyers and sellers like to start with online information sources but eventually know they need to take the next step and speak with someone live. That's why blogs are so helpful. They can now sort through and "get to know" an agent before actually picking up the phone!
Colleen -- I agree, today's buyers are very savvy and it has a lot to do with the availability of online information.
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