Blink. The computer cursor blinked tauntingly. I hadn't decided on what to blog about before I sat down to type today—hadn't even picked up the unending blog ideas list.
Blink. Blink. … It asked. I'm not sure. I have to decide.
Blink. Blink. Blink. It nudged. …We're losing seconds in the day here. Blink. Blink. Blink. Blink. You like to write, right? Make it interesting, fun, add value for readers, and reach out. Go.
Most people are interested in it. Most people will do it several times in their lifetime. It stays in the news. It's the single largest investment that most people will make in their lives—the purchase of their home.
Here's how to go about buying a home the right way:
- Keep in mind that buying a home is NOT a process of selection; it is a process of ELIMINATION.
- Don't waste your time and energy driving all over the city, attending open houses and calling real estate offices BEFORE you’re pre-approved for a mortgage loan. Find out how much you are pre-approved for and determine the areas that you like that have homes at that price point.
- Eliminate neighborhoods and the style of homes that you don’t like from your list first. You can focus on the interior design of the home once you've found the right area.
- Drive by the house once you think you’ve found the right one. Talk with the neighbors, if they're out and about. Gather as much information about what could be the single largest investment YOU will make in your life. Your agent should guide you along the way.
- Take the time to write detailed pros and cons about the home you're considering buying. Could you see yourself living there?
- Talk with your agent about what you want to offer. Decide what you're willing to give up in negotiations.
- Make concrete decisions on what vendors to use throughout the transaction and who will order them: appraisal, attorney (closing/title examination), property inspections, home warranty, mortgage loan, property insurance, survey, title insurance.
- Make an offer.
- Go to the home inspections.
- Decide what, if any, items, systems or safety issues must be repaired.
- In ALL cases, have your repairs done by licensed, reputable professionals who are employed in the profession in the same area that they are going to work on your future home.
- Contact and contract a reputable moving company in the weeks before you move.
- Plan to WIRE any funds for settlement (when you sign the papers necessary for closing).
- Don't expect to get your keys immediately when you sign the papers. You'll have to wait to get your keys once the deed has been recorded.
- Once you are closed, breathe! Congratulations, you’re a new home owner!
…Blink. Blink. Blink.
***I want to be a resource for you in all things real estate. I'd love to help you start your search for your dream home! (Not everybody's dream is a mega-mansion). Call me at (336) 794-8888! If you know of someone who is looking to buy or sell a home, I want to help them, too!
Dreams happen. Working together we'll find your home.
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