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Buying a Home

Buying a home is an exciting and complex adventure. It can also be a very time-consuming and costly one if you're not familiar with all aspects of the process, and don't have all the best information and resources at hand.

One of my specialties is representing the best interests of Didsbury area buyers throughout the home buying process. My comprehensive, high-quality services can save you time and money, as well as make the experience more enjoyable and less stressful.

If you're like most people, buying a home is the biggest investment you will ever make. So whether you're buying a starter home, your dream home or an investment property, why not take advantage of my experience as a local market expert for Didsbury, Olds, Carstairs, County of Mountain View to make the most informed decisions you can, every step of the way?

 

 

 

The following articles provide useful information and are a great place to start if you're considering buying a home.

How to choose a Neighborhood for Your Home Search Why use a Realtor When Buying a Home?
How to Choose a Home Home Inspections Avert Future Headaches
Take Charge When Buying a Home The Basics of Making an Offer

 

 

  

5 Steps for Getting Ready to Buy

Step 1. Find a Local Lender You Can Talk To in Person
Local lenders understand your market and know of loan programs that might be beneficial to you. Check with your lender on any local programs that might help with closing costs or in other ways. Even though the media have pronounced the 100-percent-financing option dead, this is not always the case. Check it out for yourself and then get preapproved for a loan so you know how much house you're able to buy.

Step 2. Be Specific in the Area You Want To Live
Educate yourself. Familiarize yourself with the neighborhoods you're interested in, the taxes and school districts. This not only helps you narrow down your search when you need to move fast, but also helps you figure out potential mortgage payments.  

Step 3. Find an Agent Specializing in the Area You Want to Live
This will save you time and effort. Once you've identified an agent, trust her to do the job. Agents who are thriving in this challenging market have proven their worth. They have the resources and skills to help you find your next home.

Step 4. Don't Shy Away From Houses That Need Some Work
Just because a house needs some paint or cosmetic fixes doesn't mean it's not a good buy. Most real estate agents have an address book full of trusted businesses they work with to help you fix up your new home. 

Step 5. Be Prepared To Act
Sometimes the first home you see is the right one for you. Don't discount it. Remember, good deals still go fast. Take advantage of the electronic tools your real estate agent has to offer. In many instances, real estate agents have access to better information than what you can find in a standard Internet search.

 

THE 10 COMMANDMENTS FOR BUYERS

 

1. Thou shalt not change jobs, become self-employed or quit your job.

2. Thou shalt not buy a car, truck or van (or you may be living in it)!

3. Thou shalt not use credit cards excessively or let your accounts fall behind.

4. Thou shalt not spend money you have set aside for closing.

5. Thou shalt not omit debts or liabilities from your loan application.

6. Thou shalt not buy furniture.

7. Thou shalt not originate any inquiries into your credit.

8. Thou shalt not make large deposits without first checking with your loan officer.

9. Thou shalt not change bank accounts.

10. Thou shalt not co-sign a loan for anyone.

If you are in the process of buying a home, remember that your credit must not change or be affected in any way until you actually sign the paperwork and get possession of your new home. Lenders will not only look into your credit when you first get pre-approved, they will check it again (and sometimes again and again) before they let you sign the mortgage.

I have seen buyer's who saw their home loan turned down DAYS before they were supposed to move into their new home EVEN THOUGHT IT WAS INITIALLY APPROVED because they went out and bought a new truck or furniture for their new home on credit before it actually became their home. Now they have a great new truck or beautiful new furniture with no home to put it in. If you want to buy new furniture for your home or change jobs, just be patient. There will always be time to do it after the closing.

(Parts taken from Dee Dee Jones blog)