- Choose a Buyer’s Broker. A good broker will meet with you to patiently discuss and demystify the entire purchasing process. They'll help you determine the type of property that will fit your needs, the price range you’re comfortable with, your time frame, and how you prefer to work. Your agent should be both a willing educator and a resourceful manager of the myriad details that occur while purchasing a home. (Think of it as having your own personal Julie McCoy, someone who will enthusiastically help organize, manage, and help with your search process.) Plus, they should know the market and have excellent negotiation skills. Most importantly, it’s imperative that you feel comfortable with and actually like your agent – it’s an important relationship, and you could be spending a good deal of time together, from search to escrow!
- Shop mortgage companies and get pre-approved. This is essential to presenting a compelling offer. Sellers usually want to see that stamp of approval from a lender before they will even think of accepting an offer. And pre-approval is easy – a trusted mortgage professional can usually help complete it in a couple of days. Compare interest rates and closing cost estimates to decide which lender will be the best fit for you. If you don’t know where to start, your broker can suggest several lenders that we know are efficient, competitive, and proven to help the process go smoothly.
- Make your wish list. What is your dream house like? Does it have a garage? A basement? A fireplace? 2.5 baths, or no more than one? What are the constraints of reality? Decide what’s on your “Must Have” list, and what you’d “Prefer, but could live without.” Discuss these lists with your real estate broker. They may have suggestions to help come as close as possible to your dream.
- Get out there and look! Deciding on your favorite location and/or neighborhood is a key piece of your search. Get the feel of different areas by driving and walking around. Go to open houses. You are not under any obligation to the agent holding the open house, and if you already have a Buyer’s Agent you should let them know. With so much "self service" real estate now available on the web, it's easy to think you can do all of this looking on your own. But touring properties with your broker is the best way to make sure you're both on the same page when it comes time to build your offer. After sampling neighborhoods at open houses, ask your broker to tour with you. A set tour each week, or an on-demand lunchtime or evening tour can be very informative and help your broker better serve you in the long run.
- Add a liberal dose of patience, humor and good luck, and you have a recipe for success!
