Where To Begin

Before you start looking for a home you should ask yourself a few questions.

Where do you want to live?
Do you want to be close to schools, shopping, or work?
Do you need to be near public transportation?
What kind of house would you like (need)? Are you looking for a particular style?

How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want?

Do you want a yard?

Make a list of what features you would like to have and then a list of what features you have to have -- share this list with the Realtor of your choice.

How much house can you afford? Have you consulted a Realtor or mortgage lender to determine the size of the mortgage you would qualify for?

You'll also want to consider:

 
• Homeowners Association dues or condo fees
• Real estate taxes
• City/town taxes for refuse, sewer, etc.
• Area trends in real estate: up or down?
• Nearby commercial properties such as a large sports complex, airport, railroad lines, business parks, schools which could affect the quality of life.

 Pull a credit report on yourself and make sure the information is accurate. If you find any errors take steps to correct them immediately. Lenders can help with this. It is good advice to pull your credit report yearly because sometimes it can be real agony and timely to get an error removed from your report.

• Browse through real estate advertisements in the newspaper and Homes magazines. This will give you a good feel for the types of homes that are on the market and what they cost.
• Check out television programs to find out information on homes available for sale in the area.
• Visit open houses on the weekend. It doesn't cost anything to look, and looking at a few different homes might give you some ideas for things you'd like in a house but haven't considered. Be aware that the agents holding the homes open will be looking for prospective buyers. Talk to them all -- don't sign a Buyer Agreement with the first one you meet. Take their cards and consider which ones impressed you the most when you get home. See Selecting a Real Estate Agent.
• Start saving money - you'll need to have cash on hand for a down payment and closing costs.
• Don't incure any additional debt. Pay down your credit cards - and don't apply for any new ones. Don't make any major purchases on credit - buy the furniture or car later after you've settled on your new home.
• Contact a Realtor. Your Realtor can help you determine how much you can afford, and they can provide you with information on homes that may interest you. The Realtor will also help you complete all of the necessary forms when it comes time to make an offer.

 For general information, please contact: Buyer@wfsnyder.com