Buyers
It’s a big decision to buy a home and to move! We’ve put together some posts to help you get started, and get comfortable. Please feel free to read through the articles we’ve posted and reach out if you have any questions at all. Here are some quick tips to get you started –
Make a Moving Checklist
You’ve found your dream house, now it’s time to move in and make it a Dream Home. Make the process as stress-free and organized as possible by starting early and keeping close tabs on the details. A simple search online for “moving checklist” will arm you with all the information you’ll need, and even advice on how to pack efficiently.
It’s Ok to Dream
When you are out there trying to find a house that is perfect for you and your family, it’s a good idea to prepare a list of all your needs, wants, and don’t-wants. Yes, an open mind is helpful when shopping for a house, but you don’t need to compromise on the things you truly care about. Prioritize your top 5 “must-have” qualities in a home, your top 5 “like to have” qualities, and you top 5 “we absolutely don’t want” qualities, and take the list with you when you go house shopping. You will be able to quickly eliminate homes that don’t fit your needs and wants, and also be able to spot the homes that deserve some greater attention.
Finances, Finances, Finances
When you are buying a home, you may be thinking “location, location, location” or “granite countertops”, but before you can start having fun shopping around, you have to do a little work to get yourself ready financially. Begin your home-buying process by cleaning up your credit report and credit score and you will be able to start off on a solid financial foundation.
Picture Yourself
Before you buy a home, you may do a lot of daydreaming about what life there will be like, relaxing by the pool or enjoying s’mores made in the wood-burning fireplace. But to know what it will really be like, you’ll have to picture yourself doing the everyday things. How is the commute? What sounds will you be falling asleep to at night? Can you picture yourself hosting Thanksgiving dinner in that size dining room? These are questions you’ll want to answer before you move in.
What Your Home Inspection Should Cover
Siding: Look for dents or buckling Foundations: Look for cracks or water seepage Exterior Brick: Look for cracked bricks or mortar pulling away from bricks Insulation: Look for condition, adequate rating for climate (the higher the R value, the more effective the...
Hidden Home Defects to Watch For
No home is flawless, but certain physical problems can be expensive. Watch for: Water leaks. Look for stains on ceilings and near the baseboards, especially in basements or attics.Shifting foundations. Look for large cracks along the home’s foundation.Drainage....
Ten Questions to Ask A Home Inspector
What are your qualifications? Are you a member of the American Association of Home Inspectors? Do you have a current license? Inspectors are not required to be licensed in every state. How many inspections of properties such as this do you do each...
How High Tech is Your Home?
If the latest technology or entertainment options are important in your new home, add the following questions to your buyer’s checklist. Are there enough jacks in every room for cable TV and high-speed Internet hookups? Are there enough telephone extensions...
Ten Things to Take the Trauma Out of Home Buying
Find a real estate agent that’s simpatico. Home buying is not only a big financial commitment, but also an emotional one. It’s critical that the agent you chose is both skilled and a good fit with your personality. Remember, there’s no “right” time to buy, any...
Ten Tips for First-Time Homebuyers
Be picky, but don’t be unrealistic. There is no perfect home. Do your homework before you start looking. Decide specifically what features you want in a home and which are most important to you. Get your finances in order. Review your credit report and be...