Buyer Tips

I have access to any property listed in the Multiple Listing Service. Just give me call or email me if you have any questions about a property or would like an appointment to see it.
These simple tips will help you find and purchase the home of your dreams more quickly and efficiently.

BEFORE YOU SHOP:

Be a smart consumer.  Learn the financing basics.  Know how to shop for a home loan that's right for you. First-time buyers check for first-time buyer programs.

Get pre-approved.  This takes very little time and lets you know the price range that fits your lifestyle.

Know what you want.  The last thing you need is to close a deal and realize you bought a home you don't want.  Ask yourself what you're looking for in a home, before you shop.  Think about size, medical services, commute time and necessary repairs.

Keep your debt load to a minimum.  Don't make major purchases or incur any additional debt until after your purchase.  Pay down credit cards and don't apply for new ones.  Remember, financial institutions evaluate your financial situation on your gross monthly income.  Your total monthly house costs should not exceed 28 percent of your gross monthly income.

Be prepared to view new properties quickly.  Sometimes homes sell quickly, so be ready to to make fast decisions.  Be accessible to change the terms.

Have instant access to your agent.  Instant communication can mean the difference in purchasing the property of your choice.

BEFORE YOU BUY:

Submit a strong competivie offer.

Include a substantial earnest money deposit.  Sometimes offers are accepted based on the amount of deposit.

Try to minimize the number of contingencies.  Fewer contingencies mean a stronger offer.

Hire an inspector.  A professional building inspector or appraiser will make sure the house of your choice is in satisfactory condition.

Checking zoning regulations and covenants.  Good residential neighborhoods will be zoned to keep out commercial and industrial users.  Read any restrictive covenants and make sure they fit your lifestyle.

Request an updated property survey.  Be sure it clearly marks boundariers.  Check for problems.

Make sure you know what stays or goes.  Your contract should be very specific about which items (appliances, etc) are included in the sale.

Get agreements in writing.  Make certain verbal agreements are written into the final contract to avoid any stressful and expensive issues later.

Things Needed for Your Loan Application:

1. Employment History (2 years)
2. Self-employed - Tax Returns
3. Prior Year W-2 Forms
4. Current Pay Stubs
5. Residence History (2 years)
6. Social Security Number
7. Bank Accounts (2 most recent statements)
8. Monthly Debt Information
9. Divorce Decree (if applicable)
10. Lease/Rental Agreements
11. Mortgage and Account Numbers

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CHOOSE A REAL ESTATE PROFFESIONAL YOU LIKE AND TRUST.

SELLER TIPS

Choosing your real estate professional is one of the most important decisions you will make when selling property. I believe the more you look around, the more you will see the value of working with me. However, no matter whom you choose, these simple tips will help you sell your home more quickly and efficiently.

Make First Impressions count. Without a doubt, a visually appealing house will attract buyers, who can't help but respond to the look and "feel" of a home. Take time to carefully prepare for showings. Don't forget the following:

• Cut the grass
• Remove any clutter from the yard
• Trim hedges
• Weed gardens
• Wash steps, windows, railings, doors, etc.
• Paint if needed
• Remove unnecessary clutter from garages

SELLERS SHOULD PREPARE FOR THE SHOWING OF THEIR PROPERTY BY:

• Opening all windows.
• Turn on all lights for a bright cheerful look.
• Set out fresh flowers, for appearance and fragrance or steep vanilla in teakettle.
• Keep closet doors closed except for walk-in closets; leave walk-in closets slightly ajar and turn on closet light to draw attention to this special feature.
• Have copies of utility bills available.
• Remove any signs or posters that might be considered offensive.
• Remove all dirty ashtrays along with the smoke odor.
• Remove pets from the house and off the property if possible.
• Soft music will create a relaxed mood that prompts the buyer to linger. Loud music and television can be distracting.
• Leave the property and let the Realtor sell the house.
• If you are unable to leave, find a book and stay involved in the book. Do not point out features of the property - the feature you find most important to you may be exactly what the buyer does not want.
• After the buyers have left, call your Realtor with the name of the Realtor that showed the property.

When choosing a real estate professional to work with,

choose a Realtor you like and trust.