1. Talk to multiple agents. Don't think you have to sign on with the first agent you meet.
2. Read paperwork carefully. At some point, your chosen agent will ask you to sign an agency agreement. It's usually a boilerplate document, but be sure to read it carefully all the same.
3. Consider the "vibe" factor. You might be working with this person anywhere from 2 to 12 months, so it certainly helps if you like them on a personal level.
4. Practice self-reliance. Don't over-rely on your agent when it comes to finding a home. Get out there and do some hunting yourself. It's a necessity, but it's also exciting!
5. Ask plenty of questions. Don't be shy about asking the sellers questions, if they're home.
6. Consider shopping, dining and the like. Is the home near the places you frequent, or will it be a long drive?
7. Check out the zoning. Are you surrounded by residential areas, or is there a soon-to-be-used commercial zone right across the street?
8. Bring a "disinterested witness." A level-headed friend or family member will help you judge the pros and cons of each home.
9. Bring a notepad. Jot down some notes about each home, and label each page by address.
10. Think five years ahead. Will the home still suit your needs if your family grows?
11. Use your agent's experience. It might be your first offer, but your agent has probably seen dozens.
12. Plan the closing date. This will normally be agreed upon during the offer process.
13. Read up on RESPA. The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act protects you from unethical lenders. Familiarize yourself with it.
14. Consider paying points. A point is one percent of the loan amount. Paying points can lower your interest rate. Look into whether or not it's a good idea for your situation.
15. Visit the mortgage section of your banks website. You can learn about everything mentioned above, in much greater detail. - 31366
2. Read paperwork carefully. At some point, your chosen agent will ask you to sign an agency agreement. It's usually a boilerplate document, but be sure to read it carefully all the same.
3. Consider the "vibe" factor. You might be working with this person anywhere from 2 to 12 months, so it certainly helps if you like them on a personal level.
4. Practice self-reliance. Don't over-rely on your agent when it comes to finding a home. Get out there and do some hunting yourself. It's a necessity, but it's also exciting!
5. Ask plenty of questions. Don't be shy about asking the sellers questions, if they're home.
6. Consider shopping, dining and the like. Is the home near the places you frequent, or will it be a long drive?
7. Check out the zoning. Are you surrounded by residential areas, or is there a soon-to-be-used commercial zone right across the street?
8. Bring a "disinterested witness." A level-headed friend or family member will help you judge the pros and cons of each home.
9. Bring a notepad. Jot down some notes about each home, and label each page by address.
10. Think five years ahead. Will the home still suit your needs if your family grows?
11. Use your agent's experience. It might be your first offer, but your agent has probably seen dozens.
12. Plan the closing date. This will normally be agreed upon during the offer process.
13. Read up on RESPA. The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act protects you from unethical lenders. Familiarize yourself with it.
14. Consider paying points. A point is one percent of the loan amount. Paying points can lower your interest rate. Look into whether or not it's a good idea for your situation.
15. Visit the mortgage section of your banks website. You can learn about everything mentioned above, in much greater detail. - 31366
About the Author:
Find out more about buying and selling real estate by dropping by our website at: Quinte Real Estate
