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LOCATION: Determine the
importance of your home’s distance to your job or
school.
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NEIGHBORHOOD: Neighborhood
affects your home’s value and resale; consider the
surround area (city, country) when you’re buying.
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WORK WITH A REAL ESTATE
AGENT: Most successful buyers use a professional
real estate agent; find someone you trust and who
understand your needs.
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PRE-QUALIFY OR
PRE-APPROVE: Meet with a lending institution to
determine your financial qualifications. Mortgage
pre-approval makes for an ideal negotiation
position.
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INVEST YOUR BEST: Check in
to the maximum loan for which you qualify and feel
comfortable. Homes appreciate based on the sale
price; invest in money in your home is good for
you and your community.
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WANTS & NEEDS: Determine
your preference of housing style (ranch or
colonial) and important features (deck, garage,
pool). Be clear with the real estate agent and
narrow your choices down to search more
effectively.
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FUTURE FAMILY NEEDS: Think
about where your family will be five and ten years
from now.
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FIND IT, BUY IT: Make an
offer on the house you like, even if it’s early in
your search. Good homes don’t stay on the market
long. Go with your instinct if you like a house.
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HOME WARRANTY: Ask the
seller to purchase a home warranty. This will
help alleviate unexpected expenses from major
appliances breaking such as the furnace, water
heater or air conditioner.
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THE MOVE: Hook up with a
reputable moving company and check in to the
carrier’s liability.
