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Homebuyers' checklist

Reblogger
Real Estate Agent with R.I.M. Realty

From a fellow agent in Mountain Home, Ark. Thanks, John!

Original content by John Howard

Homebuyers' checklist for shopping for your next home.  With almost 25 years experience helping people find their "Dream Home" here in the beautiful Mountain Home, Arkansas area I wanted to offer a simple list to help folks organize their thought process.  Some buyers are very organized, and some are off the cuff.  This Homebuyers' checklist  should make it a bit easier!

1.  Contact Realtor and ask for references....Really...I love to send my reference letters to potential   clients.  Don't be afraid to ask your agent for a blank purchase agreement (contract) to look over.

2.  Determine Preferences....In town? Lake View? River Front? Acreage?  City Services?  Square  Footage?  Number of bedrooms and baths? Maintenance free?  Any "Special Requirements"?

3.  Cash Purchase or Financing?  If Financing, ask your agent...John Howard is a good one to choose in the Mountain Home area...for a recommendation on Lenders.  Arrange for a Pre-Approval for your mortgage before actually looking at houses if at all possible.  Much greater leverage if the seller knows that you are capable of closing on a purchase!

4.  Ask Your agent to show you what the agent considers to be the top 5 to 10 best buys that fit your needs....If there are only 3...they will tell you that.

5.  Ask for current tax data from the county...Your agent can provide that for you. 

6.Take notes while touring properties.  Please ask before taking photos...some sellers are sensitive to photos being taken.

7.  Eliminate properties as touring...sift them....which one did i like best??

8.  Confirm that the favorite meets your needs and desire...read the disclosure and restrictions on your favorite(s).  Is the seller offering a Home Warranty?

9.  Determine Price and be ready, and willing to negotiate, Be ready to tender an Earnest Money Check, feel free to ask your agent what is appropriate in that market.

10.  Upon Acceptance,  Order Inspections, your agent should be able to give you a list of 3 to 5 home inspectors to choose from.  Apply for Loan (if needed).  The lender will order the appraisal. 

I hope this Homebuyers' checklist makes your buying experience a little more pleasant! 

John Howard

Century 21 LeMac Realty

Mountain Home, Arkansas

870/404-3614

Helping You Make Your Dreams Come True!

Comments (1)

Anthony Giglio
eXp Realty - Plymouth, MN
AnthonySellsMN!

Thanks for posting! This is good content to add to my buyer consult package!

Aug 05, 2010 01:06 AM