Buying a Home: 12 Tips for Cruising From Contract to Closing
Get pre-approved (not just pre-qualified) for a mortgage before making an offer on a home or even doing a home search. A pre-approved home buyer is stronger in the eyes of the seller.
Deliver all requested documents (e.g. bank statements, pay stubs, etc.) to your lender in a timely manner.
Check from time to time to make sure your lender has verified the details of your mortgage application – sometimes a little nudging from you is needed to keep the application moving along.
Be careful not to do anything that may affect your mortgage application. Remember, the lender can withdraw the approval if your situation changes substantially. Don’t apply for new credit cards, take out a loan or make any major purchases (like cars or furniture). Also, now is not the time to change jobs.
Work closely with a real estate agent you trust and are comfortable with. She or he will help you learn about the current market and home values so you’ll be ready to act with confidence when the time comes to make an offer. A purchase agreement is a binding contract. The time to do research is before you sign on the dotted line.
Direct all communications though your real estate agent. He or she will work with your lender, home inspector, appraiser and other parties throughout the entire home buying process.
Understand that no home is perfect and every purchase involves some compromise. On resale homes, repairs or deferred maintenance may be necessary. Hire an objective home inspector to thoroughly inspect the home. Then review their report with your real estate agent and focus on items that indicate major repairs and/or replacements.
Make this home buying experience an opportunity to learn. If you have questions, ask them. Chances are you’ll buy and sell several homes during your lifetime.
Assist-2-Sell is a full-service, discount real estate company that was started in 1987. Today, more than 190 Assist-2-Sell offices offer full brokerage services to home buyers and home sellers throughout North America. For additional information, please call us at (419) 878-2640.