Whether you are buying your first home or your fifth, the process of buying a home can be an emotional, time-consuming venture. Feeling that you made the right decision and got a good deal can make all the difference to your peace of mind either as an investor or owner-occupant. This is a very important topic, so we will split the suggestions into 2 posts. Check in next week for the 2nd installment.
As with most major decisions, the amount of work and research you undertake before you start shopping can have a dramatic effect on how well you do in the end.
#1 Do you really need that…(backyard tennis court)?
Everyone can picture their ideal home. If you haven’t thoroughly prepared yourself prior to viewing houses, chances are that you will find what you think is your ideal home, and will wind up paying too much for it. It is essential to treat the buying process in a slightly detached manner. Those who fall in love with houses usually pay too much. That’s why it’s recommended that you develop one list of needs and one of wants. When looking at houses, make sure that they cover all of your needs ^ things like adequate space, a good neighborhood, perhaps a garage or carport ^ and then have fun with items on your wants list. Treating the process in a regimented manner will help you to make a rational, informed decision.
#2 Get pre-approved
Visit your lending institution prior to shopping. Be sure to get a mortgage commitment in writing. Being pre-approved gives you a solid price range, and lets your Coldwell Banker Realtor and potential sellers know that you are serious and not just a browser.
#3 Get the right people behind you
Buying a home is a complicated process, with many people involved. Having the right people on your side can make a big difference. An experienced, dedicated, and knowledgeable Coldwell Banker Realtor can put a team of advocates, including lenders, lawyers, home inspectors and movers, on your side immediately.
#4 Communicate
The more you share with your Coldwell Banker Realtor, the better he or she will be able to represent you. Letting your representative know exactly what you’re looking for, in terms of needs/wants, price range, and location, can eliminate unnecessary trips to unsuitable homes and that focus can help ensure that you wind up in the right home.
#5 Location, location, location
It’s still true. The desirability and resale value of your home depend on location more than any other factor. People want a desirable community that includes character, quality of schools, access to work, major transportation arteries, recreational facilities, etc. On your viewing trips, take a careful look and ask the following questions: How does this home compare to others in the neighborhood? Are yards fenced? Are there many children playing in the streets? Are the front and back yards and the exteriors of the homes properly maintained? The less expensive houses in a better area tend to appreciate faster than the most expensive houses in a less desirable area.
Additional factors that affect the property value of a home include traffic, sounds, smells, zoning bylaws, and many others. Be objective. Be sure you are completely satisfied with the neighborhood. If you choose a neighborhood with problems, you likely won’t get as much as you hoped with it comes time to sell.
#6 Use your Realtor’s knowledge
Your Coldwell Banker Realtor is trained in all aspects of real estate, including understanding supply and demand, economics, and the neighborhoods of the islands in which they practice. A professional Realtor® can do much of the work for you, by reviewing your needs, reviewing available properties, and making an informed match. A comprehensive knowledge of the available homes in your chosen community is one of your Realtor’s® strongest assets. With the aid of computerized systems, a Realtor is notified within hours when a home becomes available.
#7 Pay attention to red flags
When evaluating a home, be sure you know the difference between acceptable and unacceptable problems. Cosmetic items like peeling paint, worn carpeting, or unattractive wallpaper can be easily remedied, and can be used as negotiation items, as there will be costs involved in updating the home. Major problems, however, are clearly red flags. Look for items such as major foundation cracks, water damage, outdated electrical systems, and inadequate plumbing. These items could be too expensive to remedy to make the home a worthwhile investment.
#8 Hire a home inspector
A home inspection is an inexpensive way to gain peace of mind, and guard your pocket book. A proper inspection will cover all areas of the house including foundation, electrical, plumbing, floors, walls, ceilings, attic, roof, siding and trim, porches, patios, decks, garage and drainage. A professional inspector can give you an objective view of the property, with a written report, indicating the present condition and items that will need repair.
#9 Be cautious with fixer-uppers
Sometimes, a fixer-upper can be purchased below market value, and once sufficient repairs are made, can be sold at a significant profit. However, not all fixer-uppers will bring in the profits you might expect. Consumers often overestimate their level of dedication to doing extensive renovation work, and underestimate the costs associated with such work. A wall that needs to be replaced can often lead to the discovery of faulty plumbing, electrical, or other major undertakings. Your Coldwell Banker Realtor and home inspector are your best allies when it comes to cost-benefit analyses.
#10 Consider your future needs
A move can be a major undertaking. Take a good look at your current lifestyle and consider the future. Will you need extra space for a home office, a child, or perhaps a child moving back home? Maybe elderly parents who will need to move in with you? Perhaps it may be easier and less expensive if you purchase a home that can meet these needs now, rather than moving up to a larger home a few years down the road.
Tune in next week to find out more.
Pirates! They mean different things in different places. On the small island of Nevis in the Eastern Caribbean, they mean history, culture, and a reason to have a good time. Pirates practiced racial freedom in the 1600s, set up the first workman’s compensation and drank quite a bit. So Nevis, to educate people more about these pirates, is starting a Peppered Pickled Pirate Party Time. Grab your hat, your sword, and your drinking mug to join us for a good time on the high seas!