STEP 3: FIND A HOUSE
• Set an appoint with your Realtor® to view houses. Drive by the fronts of the houses. Any houses or neighborhhods you don't like, cross off your list. You don't want to waste your time going to view a house with your Realtor®, and once you get there, decide you don't want to view the inside. That's why you should drive by first.
• Select 5 to 7 houses to view and send this list to your Realtor® at least 1-2 days in advance (houses which are occupied must be scheduled at least 1 day ahead).
• Bring your earnest money deposit (usually $1,000) check to your Realtor®'s office. Your Realtor® should make a copy of your check, crossing out the confidential info at the bottom (routing and checking account #s).
• Meet your Realtor®, who will provide you with a list of houses you will be viewing, data about them, and a map. View homes with your Realtor®, who will show you various points of interest at each property. Keep an open mind, you may be surprised that you end up loving the house you thought you wouldn't!
• Take a notepad and write down the pro's and con's of each house. Make note of whether or not there is a dishwasher, refrigerator, washer/dryer, window coverings, light fixtures such as chandeliers, shed, workbench, or any other personal property. Write down any obvious defects with the property.
• It's okay to bring your digital camera and take photos, BUT do not take photos inside occupied houses (unless you have secured written permission from the residents). Always be respectful inside a homeowner's personal residence.
• Number the houses (1, 2, 3, etc.) according to which ones you like the most. Remember that NO property is going to meet all of your criteria 100% (especially if you're selecting among the lower price ranges). This will be your STARTER home to get your foot in the door - you can trade up to your DREAM home later! If a house meets 85% of your criteria, it's in good condition, and fits your price range, then it's a winner.
• Narrow it down to just 1 house, but keep 2 houses on your list as back-ups. Make a list of any questions or concerns you have about your #1 house. Your Realtor® can take you back to view your top choices again, if needed.
SEE ALL OF THE STEPS HERE (click on the links below)
1. PREPARE FOR HOME OWNERSHIP
2. GET READY TO SHOP FOR HOUSES
3. FIND A HOUSE
4. MAKE YOUR OFFER
5. ITEMS COVERED IN PURCHASE CONTRACT
6. NEGOTIATIONS
7. DURING ESCROW
8. CLOSING ESCROW
9. YOUR NEW HOME
Are you ready? Let's go! Take your first STEP today towards making your DREAM a reality!
Join my new AR group and post your blog at http://activerain.com/groups/virtualoffice
Regina P. Brown
Broker, Realtor®, e-Pro
Author of eBook "Stop Foreclosure Fast: Solutions to Save your House"
Text copyright © 2009 R.P. Brown, All Rights Reserved
;)
;)
;)
