Useful Stuff: Home Buyers Tips

The neighborhood you choose can have a big impact on your lifestyle—safety, available amenities, and convenience all play their part.

Increase your chances of getting your dream house instead of losing it to another buyer, with these easy steps.

Condominiums and townhouses offer an affordable option to single-family homes in most areas. But consider these facts before you buy.

A real estate transaction is complicated. In most cases, buying or selling a home requires disclosure forms, inspection reports, mortgage documents, insurance policies, deeds, and multi-page government-mandated settlement statements. A knowledgeable guide through this complexity can help you avoid delays or costly mistakes.

Key questions you should ask yourself before choosing representation. You'd be surprised!

Understand why owning is a better investment than renting!

Learn more how to avoid some of the most common mistakes a first-time home buyer makes.

First -Time home buyer?  Follow some of these easy tips and you'll be better off.

If the latest technology or entertainment options are important in your new home, add the following questions to your buyer’s checklist.

No home is flawless, but certain physical problems can be expensive. Watch for:

What kind of questions should I ask during a home inspection?

Buying a new home can be a very difficult time however when your working with someone who cares about your end goal in mind it can make a world of difference.

Be sure to your home inspector covers these critical items as he inspects your new home.

Check your home warranty policy to see which of the following items are covered. Also check to see if the policy covers the full replacement cost of an item.

Property Tax questions you should ask yoursefl before buying your new home.

Before you buy, contact the condo board with the following questions. In the process, you’ll learn how responsive—and organized—its members are.

Be sure you find a loan that fits your needs with these comprehensive questions.

 

Be prepared and have these documents on hand becuase a lender will ask for them.

If your income and savings are making homebuying a challenge, consider these options.

Mortgage term. Mortgages are generally available at 15-, 20-, or 30-year terms. The longer the term, the lower the monthly payment if the same amount is borrowed. However, you pay more interest overall if you borrow for a longer term.

Make sure you have the proper coverage and limits with your new homeowners policy.

Want to save some money? Read on and follow these easy steps.

What is this thing they call title insurance and why is it so expensive anyway?

Be sure that you have...

The lender must disclose a good faith estimate of all settlement costs. A check to cover your closing costs will probably have to be a cashier’s check. The title company or other entity conducting the closing will tell you the required amount for: Loan origination fees

The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) statement. This form, sometimes called a HUD 1 statement, itemizes all the costs associated with the closing. You’ll need this for income tax purposes and when you sell the home.

So your buying a house, how should I pack?

If you're thinking about buying a home, you'll want to carefully choose a real estate professional. It is important to find a person you feel comfortable with and who listens well. Windhill Realty agents want to understand your likes and dislikes in order to make your home-buying experience a positive one. We encourage clients to create a ‘Buyer’s Top 10 List’ for the home they are looking to buy.