Buying a home in this market can be a very intimidating process. The inventory is at a super surplus, which can be overwhelming if you do not know where and how to look. I have worked with a wide range of buyers, from first time buyers to seasoned home purchasers. Whether you are buying a condo, townhome, house, or land, I am your local, helpful real estate agent. I would be delighted to be your Realtor. No town is too far away, no home is too small or big, no client is not worth 110% of my energy. That is what I have to offer you.
Below are some typical first time home buyer questions. I have answered them, based on my personal experiences. I hope this helps you with the start of your home search in the Western Suburbs.
How do I get ready to look for a home?
There are a few steps to prepare for the home buying process. First, familiarize yourself with the market. Read newspaper ads, look at homes advertised online, and drive around looking at homes. Sunday’s are the best days, since there are usually open houses. Next, use the internet to every advantage possible. You can learn about the community, neighborhoods, average cost of a home, school districts, etc. You should be able to get a “feel” for the type of home you like, but viewing “Virtual Tours”, which is a 360 degree photograph of the homes major rooms. This should help you understand the basics of what you want. And last, but not least, get pre-approved for a mortgage, in writing. This will help you confine your home search to homes you can really afford. Also, when you do find your ideal home, your offer becomes more attractive with a pre-approval letter. It assures the seller you are a serious buyer and have the financial ability to purchase their home.
What is the benefit of having a buyer’s agent?
The benefits of using a Realtor are as follows:
- • Help you find homes, including homes that may not be publically advertised
- • Offer you information about the community you are interested in
- • Help you see a home’s true potential
- • Help you figure out how much to offer and make sure you avoid overpaying
- • Help you negotiate the purchase price and other issues
- • Help you find other real estate professionals
- • Help you receive access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), a database of current and past home listings, available to participating Realtors
- • Share with you our knowledge of the local market
- • Help you stay objective throughout the home buying process
Below is some additional information to help when buying, selling, or renting your home.
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