1. Determine how much home you can afford. This can be estimated by checking out Destination Home or having an honest conversation with your mortgage lender of choice. Having realistic expectations will save you time and aggravation in the long run. Here’s a quick calculator to help you out if you’re in a hurry. Once you’ve done this secure a letter of pre-approval from your lender so that sellers will know you’re serious and that you have stable credit.
2. Create two lists. On one list add everything your new home MUST have. Examples might include 4 bedrooms or a fenced-in backyard for your dog. Next create a wish list. What have you always wanted in your home? Try to prioritize each list and be tough on the entries to your “must have” list. Here’s a wish list form to print off and fill out.
3. Time to Find a Real Estate Agent. Interview several local agents to find the right fit for you. Ask your friends who they have worked with in the past and check out online reviews if they are available. Make sure to pick someone who is resourceful, shrewd, intelligent and listens to you. The last trait is key. A great real estate agent will transform your ideas into physical realities and provide information to help you make the right choice. (More tips HERE.)
4. Research. Research. Research. Which neighborhoods in your are have the highest appreciation value? What price did the most recently purchased home on the block go for? How do the schools rank? How many violent crimes have taken place in that precinct in the last 90 days? All of this data is available to you and your agent should help you piece it together. Some resources to check out include: http://www.zillow.com, http://www.city-data.com/city/North-Carolina.html, http://www.greatschools.net/modperl/go/NC
5. Get Personal. If you decide to live in a neighborhood you’ll be opting to live in close proximity with your neighbors. It’s wise to knock on a few doors and ask some questions. This can be informal or more involved depending on your taste. Offer to buy them dinner in exchange for some honest opinions. Once you’ve chatted up a few people make it a point to drive through the area at different times of day. Maybe park and observe the traffic levels and ambient neighborhood sounds. Every area has its own feel and understanding your future neighborhood will help you make an informed buying choice.
6. Make an Offer! Combining all the facts you’ve obtained above and working closely with your agent make an offer on your new home. This process may be quick or it may be tedious. Thankfully our hard work prior to this point has eliminated a lot of the guess work.
Our Shiloh Grove Townhomes in Morrisville, NC.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
The article is ver good. Write please more