When to Start
Looking For a Home
Don't wait until you have the
money! Most buyers aren't aware of all the financing options
available to them that require little or no down payment. Ask your
"Buyers Agent" to recommend qualified & reputable lenders.
Check into your mortgage
options. You'll want to obtain a written "Pre-Approval" from a
mortgage lender indicating the amount you will be qualified to
borrow.
Where would you like to live?
Do you want to be in a certain school district? Need to be close to
major highway or train? Concentrate your beginning point there.
Think about your household
needs. How many bedrooms you need, floor plan or design, size of
garage, etc…
Are you renting? Allow
enough time so that when you are ready to move, you will be able to
go right into your new home. Your "Buyers Agent" can help you time
it just right!
Begin researching the market
before you intend to buy. Start 6-9 months early! Ask your
"Buyers Agent" to start sending you listings. Through the internet &
your e-mail you can receive automated "up to the minute" notice on
homes that fit your criteria and price range as soon as they become
available to the market. Through "Connect MLS" (A direct link to the
Multiple Listing Service of Illinois which services 1000's of
listings from all it's member offices)
Learn about disclosures and
contracts. Last but certainly not least, have your "Buyers
Agent" sit down and educate you on the many forms and documents you
will be asked to sign. It is a complex process that has many
potential pitfalls and glitches that demand the undivided attention
and involvement of a Real Estate Professional who has been trained
in the intricacies of negotiating and finalizing a transaction to
completion. For many people, buying a home is an extremely emotional
experience. Technology is a wonderful and powerful too, but that's
precisely what it is. It cannot and never will be able to offer the
assurance, guidance and friendship that are unique to the kind of
personal interaction which a "Buyers Agent" and their clients enjoy.
It's important to have someone to guide you through the process,
strongly negotiate on your behalf and ensure you're playing with the
market, not against it!
We work hard for you! |
