A home buyer should make a checklist - it will make the process of home buying easier and with a checklist there should be less stress too.
So one of your New Year resolutions is to move to a new residence within the next six months. So where do you start? Most likely you will dabble on the Internet looking at various areas of choice and various price points. As a REALTOR in Highland Park, Illinois I can help you with a few pointers to make the process easier.
1. Partner with a Real Estate Agent who sells Real Estate in the area you are condisering.
2. If you do not know a REALTOR ask a friend, search the Internet or visit open houses - there are many choices. Make sure you partner yourself with someone who knows the marketplace.
3. Your REALTOR will be a key player in helping you secure your home of choice so make sure you feel confident that your REALTOR will work for you.
4. Talk to a Mortgage Broker to learn how much you can spend and get pre- approved.
5. Focus within a specific price range.
6. Know what your MUST HAVES are - number of bedrooms and baths.
7. Create your WISH LIST - an updated kitchen, Master Bedroom with private bath, a finished basement or a two car garage.
8. If you have absolute NO'S such as a specific style home or location let your REALTOR know so you do not waste time.
9. Visit public places in the area you want to move to - such as restaurants, grocery store or parks.
10. If you have children who will be attending school- visit the school, meet the principal/director and get a tour.
11. Ask your REALTOR for recommendations for a Real Estate Attorney and an inspector.
Having a buyer checklist will make the home buying process much more enjoyable. You may want to add a few other things to your checklist that are important to you and your family. I hope the above gives you a head start on the process.
Remember - with today's market conditions, low interest rates and buyer incentives in place it is a GREAT TIME TO BUY!! Enjoy the process and if you are looking for a home in Chicago's North Shore - give me a call. You'll be glad you did.
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