Whether you are a first time homebuyer or a seasoned veteran in the market, buying a home is one of the most exciting times!
Some of my tips for Buyers are:
1. GET QUALIFIED FOR A MORTGAGE: KNOWLEDGE IS POWER, so know exactly what your Buying Power is.
2. BE FAMILIAR WITH YOUR CREDIT SCORE: Your credit score will affect how financial institutions lend money. The higher your credit score the more likely you will get a lower interest rate from your lender.
3. LOOK AT MANY PROPERTIES IN YOUR PRICE RANGE: You will need to "know your market" and get familiar with what is available in your price range so you have as many homes to compare to each other in your price range. This will help you make an informed and educated purchase.
4. HAVE A HOME INSPECTION: There are many potential hidden flaws a home can have that are not visible to the untrained eye. A professional, accredited home inspection service is well worth the cost considering the financial investment you are making when purchasing a home. No one wants to buy a "Lemon", so be an educated and informed Buyer.
5. DO NOT APPLY FOR NEW CREDIT: Perhaps the largest set-back I have seen over the years is when a Buyer gets pre-approved for a mortgage and before the deal completes goes out and applies for new credit. This can potentially cause your deal to collapse, so wait until your mortgage is funded, and then go out and buy new furniture or that new car you're looking at.
FOR SELLERS
1. GET YOUR HOME IN "SHOW" CONDITION: You don't get a second chance to make a first impression. From outside curb appeal to inside clutter, make your home appeal to as many potential Buyers as possible.
2. MAKE YOUR HOME FREE OF ODORS: When you are selling your home it is important that your home smells fresh. Pet odors and the smell of cigar or cigarette smoke can distract potential purchasers from seeing the great features your home has.
3. LIMIT YOUR PERSONAL STYLE: When you are selling your home it is essential that you appeal to as many potential Buyers as possible. Sellers should limit personal style and remember neutral paint colors and flooring appeal to a wider range of Buyers and the goal is to sell your home for top dollar!
4. REMOVE ANY ITEMS YOU DO NOT WANT TO INCLUDE WITH YOUR HOME: This is something that Sellers should do prior to listing the home for sale. If you want to remove items from the home such as light fixtures
or appliances, it is okay to do so, as long as you replace the items.
5. USE THE SERVICES OF A REALTOR TO SELL YOUR HOME: When you are selling your home you will increase your chances of selling for top dollar when you hire a professional Realtor to market your property.
A REAL ESTATE transaction will be a very emotional dealing for both Buyers and Sellers. Try to remember the ultimate goal
for both parties is to negotiate a
binding contract with satisfactory terms and conditions.