Monday, January 5, 2009

Seven Tips For Buying Your New Home

By John Kron

Many will agree that purchasing and owning real estate is one of the most important parts of adult life. Like any large item, thought has to be put into the longterm effect a home or other property will have on your lifestyle and family. If you are thinking about getting out of the renter's mindset and moving up to owning your own home, here are seven tips that might be useful.

1. Find a real estate agent that you feel comfortable with, and that has experience in your market. If you can locate an agent that understands your needs and is willing to put the effort into meeting them, then you are on the right track.

Your real estate agent should be able to provide you with a report of recent market activity in your area. In order to find a home for the best price and value, it is important to compare new properties on the market with selling prices of other, similar homes.

3. A third party home inspection is a must. Don't buy property until an expert that you trust has examined it. Everyone has heard horror stories of homes with bad foundations or plumbing troubles. At the very least, you may gain valuable bargaining information.

4. If possible, try to get pre-qualified for financing, with a mortgage rate guarantee. This will help find homes that you can afford, and avoid disappointment if you fall in love with a house out of your price range. It will also streamline the buying process later on.

5. Avoid getting emotionally attached to a home the first time you see it. While liking the house you buy is important, a purchase of this size needs to be carefully thought out. Don't let your emotions sway you into making foolish choices that you may regret later.

6.Be aware of different negotiating tactics and styles. An offer that is too low may upset the seller, and make counter offers less appealing. An experienced real estate agent can help you get through offer situations.

7. Understand all the documents before you sign. Get your agent to explain them to you, and make sure you know your rights and obligations.

With the help of your real estate agent, you can find an affordable home that you love. It may take some time, but if you are prepared to look at several properties and do some research, you may find exactly what you are looking for. - 15790

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