 Leah's Buyer Tips will help you locate and purchase your new property quickly and efficiently.
1. Get pre-approved. This can be done quickly, and is a crucial first step that lets you know the price range that fits your lifestyle.
2. Know what you want. Think about what's most important to you before you shop.
3. Keep debt 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 home costs should not exceed 35 percent of your gross monthly income.
4. Be prepared to view properties quickly. In today's market, properties are selling quickly, so be prepared to make fast decisions.
5. Submit a strong competitive offer.
6. Include a substantial earnest money deposit. Sometimes offers are accepted based on the amount of the earnest money deposit.
7. Try to minimize the number of contingencies. Fewer contingencies mean a stronger offer.
8. Hire an inspector. I work with professional building and pest inspectors that will help ensure the property of your choice is in satisfactory condition.
9. Check zoning regulations and covenants. Obtain and read any restrictive covenants, conditions and restrictions, and make sure they fit your lifestyle.
10. Make sure you know what stays or goes.
Your contract should be very specific about which items (appliances, etc) are included in the sale.
11. Get agreements in writing. Make certain verbal agreements are written into the final contract to avoid any issues later.
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