Buying real estate doesn't have to be complicated. Probably the single most important thing to remember is that the listing agent represents "THE SELLER" and that if the property you are interested in is listed with a broker, a commission will be paid to a licensed real estate broker for the sale of the property. So, to make a long story short, have a real estate agent represent YOU, "THE BUYER". Someone who has your best interests in mind. In Arizona, this is called Buyer Brokerage. The professionals at Old Pueblo Homes LLC would be happy to assist.
Ok, enough of that!
At the risk of over simplifying the process, here it goes:
Speak to a lender - Too many buyers leave this step to the last minute. Remember this, the very best properties sell very quickly. If you're not prepared to make a solid offer (including a Conditional Loan Approval (CLA), which only a licensed mortgage lender can provide) the likelihood your offer will be accepted is greatly diminished. The lender will, more importantly, tell you what you can afford so you know in which price range you should be shopping. This will help your real estate agent zero in on the properties that meet your buying criteria and minimize frustrations.
If you need to find a lender, give us a call and we can help!
Work with a Realtor® - Re-read paragraph one! We have the tools to find the most ideal property in the shortest amount of time. We also have working relationships with appraisers, property inspectors, pest treatment providers, lenders, title and escrow professionals, as well as tradesmen should estimates or repairs be needed. And remember, the seller typically pays our fees in the sale price of the property!
Budget - Perhaps the single most important step in the process is to come to terms with the financial aspects of real estate ownership. The educated buyer understands the difference between being "house rich and cash poor" and living within their means. The budget link will provide the tools necessary to determine just how much house you can and should afford.
Finance - Determining which of the many financing options is best suited to your needs is critical to maximizing your purchasing power. The Finance link has information necessary to make informed decisions regarding which mortgage best suits your needs. Additionally, in a fast paced market like ours, securing financing prior to shopping is imperative to ensuring your "Offer to Purchase" is as strong as it can be.
Identify Needs - Understanding the "must haves", as well as, the "would like to haves" will help us greatly in assisting you to find your new home. The "Property Search" link is designed to allow our clients to choose precise details they require in their new home.
Locate Property - Our real estate consultants will assist in locating the property which best meets your "wants and needs".
Offer to Purchase - After locating that "Perfect" property, we will complete a comprehensive Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) of the selected property. The CMA will serve as the basis for determining the offer price as well as other terms of the offer.
Discovery - The accepted contract presents the buyer an opportunity to discover material details about their prospective new home. Inspections by Certified Property Inspectors (ASHI), Pest Control Inspectors and other trade professionals can uncover material defects within the target property which should be remedied prior to close of escrow (COE).
Close -Sign the papers and move in.
Buying-A-Home.com - Home Buyer Guide Information about common buyer problems every first time home buyer needs to know!