The first step in purchasing a home is to arrange for financing. There is nothing worse than getting your heart set on the perfect place, only to find out later that you don’t qualify for the monthly expense of that purchase.  Lenders have a way of analyzing your income, savings, monthly expenses and credit rating, in order to help you determine your ability to purchase a home and, how much you should be able to finance.  Your lender can also help you understand what all goes into financing, what is included in your payment.

Closing costs are the costs associated with the purchase of a home, and they are typically made up of a few different components. 1) Loan costs/fees, which are basically the fees the lender charges the consumer, other than interest, in order to “put up the money. 2) HOA (Home-Owners Association) fees, some of which may be charged up front. 3) Title Fees: Paid to the title/escrow company, for managing the transaction as a neutral third party. Typically, the title company also charges for guaranteeing clear and marketable title in real estate.

Over the years, I have been fortunate to work with some truly talented people in both the loan and title industries! I look forward to the chance to introduce you to them, so you can see what I mean. They honestly have your best interest in mind and heart.

I highly recommend it! Even on new homes, there can sometimes be oversights; it just happens. We are all human. Sometimes we just fall into the routine and overlook things. By hiring a professional home inspector to take a second look, there is nearly always something they find that proves to be very helpful. It may be a code issue that needs to be taken care of, or evidence of water or fire damage, or radon gas, termites, electrical issues, foundation problems, and the list goes on and on. Don’t let these things scare you. Most places don’t have all of these challenges, but most homes do have some issues. Better to go in with your eyes wide open.

I have a list of excellent home inspectors and would be happy to make some introductions.  If I am referring you to them, it is because I have done business with them, and I trust them. Therefore, you can trust them, too.

The great news is that, when you are purchasing a home, I work for you for no commission! Normally, the Realtor commission is paid by the Seller, and has already been negotiated into the sale before we come into the picture.  But wait, it gets better! As your Realtor, I am on your team. I am here to guide and protect you through this often tedious and complex process. I am here to help you negotiate the best deal and most favorable terms on your purchase. I am here to share, not only my experience and expertise, but my great resources of contacts who, together, will help you every step of the way, not only before you buy, but long after you have purchased.

Answer: One of the best things that you can do is determine your wants and your needs. A necessity could include the number of bedrooms in a home, the type of area that you want to live in, or a large backyard. Your wants could include anything from the former list or a better version of a necessity. Each is unique to each person. That is why it is great if you make a list to really understand what you are looking for.

Answer: Both the buyers and the sellers market originate from the law of supply and demand. A seller’s market is when there are more interested buyers than available properties. This puts the seller at a better place to sell their home. A buyer’s market is when there are more available properties than interested buyers. This puts the buyer in a better position to negotiate the price of the property.

Answer: It depends! There are lots of factors that determine a home’s value. These can include the home size, usable space, schools in the area, opportunities to work, the age and conditions of the home, consumer behavior, interest rates, etc. I have over 18 years of experience helping people buy and sell their homes and can work with you to help estimate its worth.

Answer: One of the main benefits to hiring a real estate agent is that they have pricing expertise. I have been working as a real estate agent for over 18 years and have a good understanding of the market and can ensure that you are getting the best value in buying or selling a home. Additionally, when buying a home sometimes repairs need to be made. I can spot trouble and help you recommend the best step to take.

If you have ever bought a home, you know that there is a lot of paperwork involved. A real estate agent can help mitigate your worries of forgetting to check a box or sign a line and help you feel comfortable throughout the entire process. A real estate agent also can help you seal the deal. It is not uncommon for problems to arise while closing on a home. An agent can help you work through almost any challenge that arises and will be your advocate.