When purchasing a home, you are faced with a multitude of decisions. Finding that perfect home is not an easy task, and obtaining a mortgage loan can be a complex and tiring process. Once you've made the commitment to reach that home-purchasing goal, the rewards you can achieve are unquestionable.
Having been a REALTOR® for the past 18 years and personally bought and sold various types of properties for the past 29 years, I have my finger on the pulse of the real estate market, and understand neighbourhood values. I will help you determine which properties are fairly-priced and in good condition before you start your search.
Your first step in the home-buying process is to define the reasons why you want to purchase a new home. To stop paying rent? To start building equity? To have a place of your own? To raise a family? To move up to a bigger house?
Determine the style of home you prefer and the area in which you'd like to live. Be specific.
Develop a "Needs vs. Wants" list. Everyone has a picture of their ideal home. This home would include all the features you not only need, but have long desired. However, when it comes time to buying a home, these desired features constitute additional costs. While it's nice to think about having an artfully landscaped backyard, or built-in appliances, these are usually considered luxury items, which can add considerably to the price of your property.
Begin the list with items you absolutely need like adequate room, garage space, and number of bedrooms. How much space do you really need? Does your situation require a one-level home, or are stairs acceptable? Basic needs should be considered first. After these have been established, you can consider additional features if you can manage these benefits financially. With such a list in your hands, you're less likely to be caught up in the excitement of the pursuit. You'll have a good idea of what you want, the features within your price range, and whether or not you can afford those additional items.
Think of yourself as zeroing in on a target, going from the general to the specific. Consider areas and neighbourhoods (older and settled or brand new). Check out the neighbourhoods you're considering, and ask around. What amenities does the area have to offer? Are there schools, churches, parks, or grocery stores within reach? Consider visiting schools in the area if you have children. How will you be affected by a new commute to work? Are there infrastructure projects in development? All of these factors will influence the way you experience your new home, so ensure you're well-acquainted with the surrounding area before purchasing.
Once you've narrowed down your list, you're ready to take the next step in the purchasing process: getting pre-approved with a mortgage lender. While getting pre-approved may sound daunting, it actually just involves getting an idea of what you can afford. When you're pre-approved, this means that a lender has reviewed your credit history, verified your assets and employment, and has approved your loan before you've found a home to purchase.
Contact me and I'll be happy to refer you to mortgage professionals with an excellent reputation and track record for successfully acquiring loan approvals for their clients.
It is a very time consuming process to view every home available that meets your needs. I can do much of the work for you, by establishing your needs, then reviewing a range of properties and advising you of potential matches. I have my finger on the pulse of housing trends and prices and access to the best possible resources and communication systems available today to help you locate homes in the real estate market that match your specifications. A comprehensive knowledge of the available homes in your preferred neighborhood is one of my strongest assets.
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As a top REALTOR® with years of experience and a proven track record, it is my job to guide you through this complicated process, from beginning to end.
Contact me today, together we will prepare a unique system to suit your particular needs and goals. From helping you find your dream home to closing the deal - and every small or large step in between - I will be there to ensure your journey to life behind a new door is a smooth one!