Rick Langford & Kerry Macnaughton
Home Ownership Advisors
Do any of these tips raise questions for you? I hope that you are doing well. We wanted to say thanks for your help and hard work with (the property). Another job well done! -Mark Thank you for sponsoring our dog Vincent for the Humane Society walk. -Ben & Sarah
Get pre-approved
It only takes a few days to get financing pre-approval. When you are shopping for a home, this gives you more power. A seller is more likely to consider an offer from a serious buyer.
Remember additional costs
Besides the funds for the purchase of a home, you’ll need funds for items such as loan fees, insurance, legal fees, surveys, inspections, etc.
Take a deep breath
Before you sign, ensure that all documentation clearly reflects your understanding and conditions of the transaction. Has anything been forgotten? Don’t rush. You could lose money, financing, or even the sale if you attempt to push things through too hastily.
Is there more you want to know about buying your home? We're happy to answer your questions. It's our job. There's no obligation and we'll get back to you quickly.
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We specialize in creating happy clients. Here's what a few have to say:
With sincere appreciation and warmest thanks. ...and a special thanks to you Kerry. Try not to lose the pen. :)
-Brad
Thank you for all your work sending me house listings in your area....Thank you for your efforts on my behalf...I will certainly contact you as my agent of choice in the future.
-Donna
You are certainly an earth angel. Thanks for all your help.
-Billy and Christine
Many thanks. I sincerely appreciate all the time and effort you spent helping us get the house in shape. (sold in 3 days!). Thanks also to your Dad. Please treat him to lunch on me.
-Kathy
I would not hesitate to recommend you to others...as you shine! Again, thanks for your time and I wish you well.
-Ingrid
All is well at the new house. Thanks for asking...I tell everyone how great you guys are!
-Opal
February's Tip: Avoid the Most Common Buyer Errors Shopping for a new home is an emotional experience. It is, however, also a business transaction, and must be treated as such. Three of the most devastating things that can go wrong are:
Every month we'll bring you a new set of tips that will arm you with powerful knowledge to help you make the right decisions when purchasing your first home.
Next month:
The right home at the right price
• Paying too much
• Losing a dream home to another buyer
• Buying the wrong home
When you have a systematic plan before you shop, you’ll be sure to avoid these costly errors. Here are some tips on making the most of your home purchase:
Get the information you need
What price do you offer a seller? Is the seller’s asking price too high? Is it a deal? Your own research is important, as is the assistance of a Realtor®. A professional Realtor® can offer an unbiased opinion on the value of a home, based on many factors and a great deal of information. Without knowledge of the market, your offer could be too much. Or worse, you could miss out on a great buying opportunity. Hire the right person and trust that person to represent your interests.
Buy YOUR home
What do you need and want in a home? Sounds simple, but clearly identifying your needs and bringing an objective view to home shopping leaves you in a much better position. How much space do you really need? Too small and you may feel like you live in constant clutter. Too big and maintenance may become too daunting. Outline all of your priorities, and work on finding not just a great home, but a great home for you.
Check the title
Before you sign any document, be sure the property you are considering is free of all encumbrances. As a part of his or her services, your lawyer can supply you with a copy of the title to ensure there are no liens, debts, undisclosed owners, leases or easements against the title.
Update the survey
Before the purchase is completed, an updated survey is essential. This report will indicate boundaries and structural changes (additions to the house, a new swimming pool, neighbor’s new fence which is extending a boundary line, etc.), and will guarantee that you are indeed getting what you pay for.
Minimize the unexpected
For $300 - $500, a professional inspector will conduct a thorough inspection of the home. Their expertise can mean the difference between uncovering major flaws before or after you own a home. Make the final contract subject to the report’s findings.
