Pre-Approval for the Purchase
Identify your qualified price range and that which suits your lifestyle.
Although this takes very little time, it is of great value.
Instant Realtor Access
Maintain “instant” access with your realtor via office
phone, voice mail, fax, pager, email, or cell phone.
Be Decisive
Being accessible to change the terms instantly and being prepared
to make decisions quickly is very important. Homes can sell quickly,
sometimes within hours.
Planning
Ahead
Seriously consider any personal changes which may impact you financially
in the next five to seven years . Having children, buying a new
vehicle, and other such changes should be taken into account.
Impulse Buying
Look at a wide selection of homes, review the positives and negatives,
narrow the prospects to three or four, and finally return for a
closer inspection and consideration. Place a great deal of thought
into where you want to live.
The
Environment
Examine the neighborhood -- is the area safe, quiet, and close to
work, stores, and other important services? Remember, you are not
just living in your house.
Have
the Answers
Buying a home isn’t a daily experience. Do not be afraid to
ask your realtor questions or for advice.
Review Your Credit
Most likely, you will need a mortgage to buy a house. Obtain copies
of your credit report before looking for a home and be certain it
is accurate. Ensure your credit history is as clean as possible.
Hire a Home Inspector
Strongly consider hiring your own home inspector, preferably one
with experience in conducting home surveys in the area where you
are buying. They will point out possible problems that could require
costly repairs in the future.
Take Your Time
This is one of the most important decisions you will ever make –
do not make it too quickly. Make a list of both the positive and
negative reasons for buying a house for later review.
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Make Room for Space
Potential buyers are looking for more than just a home. They're also
looking for open storage space. Clean your attic and basement, and
remove any unnecessary clutter.
Invest a Few Hours Work
Buyers want to see how great your home really is, rather than how
great it could look after a little work. Clean up the living room,
the kitchen, and the bathroom. If there are scuff marks or faded
paint, consider some low-cost redecoration or touch-ups.
Don’t Forget Your Closets
Organized closets appear larger. Stow away those unused items and
unwanted clothing.
Make
the Most of that First Impression
Fewer obstacles between buyers and your home will bring out its
true appeal.
Mow the lawn, trim shrubs, tidy the porch, and consider painting
areas in need.
Hire a Realtor
Look for an active, experienced realtor specializing in your area,
with the expertise in marketing, pricing, and contract negotiation.
Avoid Crowd Scenes
Buyers want to view your home with minimal distraction. They often
feel uneasy or intrusive when they enter a home filled with people.
Stay away from your home and let your realtor conduct the tour.
Remember the Outside
A well-maintained lawn and shrubbery will make a positive first
impression. If your home is eye-catching from the street, it’s
more likely someone will want to buy it.
Lighten Up
Turn on lights in rooms for a bright, lively look. Lamps and indirect
lighting are best but use what lighting is available. Also, remember
to open all draperies displaying a pleasant view.
Consider Music
Soft background music at a low volume will create a more relaxed
atmosphere. Refrain from using the television; it will only act
as a distraction.
Defer to Experience
When buyers want to negotiate price, terms, or other such matters,
let them speak to an expert - your RE/MAX realtor.
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