Buying or selling a home? RE/MAX Select Properties can help.

Buying a home is stressful for many people, but with a bit of up-front planning, it's not too confusing. So they understand exactly what to expect, I'll give buyers a road map of the whole deal. Here are my nine steps to purchasing a home. If you have questions regarding any of this information or if you're prepared to get started, just contact me here or e-mail me at .

Step 1 – Get ready to purchase
There are plenty of things you'll want to take into account before you search for a home. It's likely that you'll want to assemble an outline of items you need to have, get a feeling for what neighborhoods and school districts you want to live in, and start planning your budget. Ensuring your mortgage payment is less than or close to a third of your monthly income is a good principle to go by.

Step 2 – Communicate with a real estate agent in Harmony
This is where RE/MAX Select Properties can help. We can schedule a time to meet so we can talk about your real estate needs and get an idea of your upcoming plans. We'll discuss neighborhoods, school districts in the Harmony area, the mortgage industry, and any additional economic factors that may affect your purchase today or in the future.

I'll also help you begin the loan process. I partner with some of the best mortgage professionals in Harmony, so you're in great hands. They'll help you figure out which kind of loan is best for you, as well as help you get approved.

Step 3 – Start house hunting
After we meet for the first time, I'll start searching for available homes on the market that are a good fit for you. I'll research many of the homes and throw out the duds, and then we'll book appointments to view the houses when it's most convenient for you.

As we view houses, I'll point out positive features and negative ones. I'll also ask you about things you like and dislike. It's pretty common for buyers to update their wish list as we view houses and some items become more necessary than others. If that's the case, I'll look through all the listings once more and narrow it down to the house you've been wishing for.

Step 4 – Comprehend the housing market
My understanding of the Harmony market is a leading factor in your house search. I'm acquainted with all the school districts and neighborhoods, and I can alert you to which districts are "hot" and require immediate action and others that are "cold" and allow for cautiousness.

As we view homes, I'll be sure to tell you if the list price has room for bargaining or if I believe the house is "priced to sell." Any REALTOR will convince you they truly understand the home market, but be on guard, and make sure you ask your agent plenty of questions. If things don't add up, contact me at 5078864221 or e-mail me at , and I'll be more than happy to answer any questions you might have. My market knowledge will keep you a step above the rest through the entire process.

Step 5 – Find the house of your dreams
I'm certain we'll find the home of your dreams in the Harmony area. When that happens, I'll carefully create your real estate purchase offer. The offer will be tailored to suit your needs and the home, including some contingencies. A few examples are acquiring financing, carrying out the inspection, and a clear title.

When we present your offer, you'll likely need to present "earnest money." This is a cash deposit given to a home seller to secure an offer to purchase the property and is usually applied to the cost of closing. If the offer is accepted, we should close on the property about 30 to 60 days after. This allows sufficient time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate
Most deals don't close on the initial offer, and it's widely common to receive a counter offer. But don't let this intimidate you. We'll talk over whether or not to accept the counter offer, submit our own counter offer, or reject the seller's offer and move on.

Market circumstances will play a vital role in how aggressively we negotiate the deal. We'll also work within your budget. And when it's all said and done, we'll compose a contract that is best for you.

Step 7 – Secure a loan
Once the contract is signed, you'll begin working with your lender to close the loan. If you've been pre-approved, this shouldn't be a long process at all. But you should to stay in close contact with your lender. And I'll deal with all the property information your mortgage lender needs to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
You'll get a Loan Estimate (LE) outlining closing costs from your lender within three days of accepting your loan application. This estimate is based on the loan amount. RESPA requirements mandate that it has to contain all closing costs and be within a strict range of accuracy, and I'll go over the estimate and let you know if everything looks adequate.

Then we'll close on your home. This will most likely occur at a title company or escrow office and will most often be a smooth and stress-free occurrence.

Step 9 – Move in
Congratulations! Now you can move into your new house. Enjoy it. And if you have any questions, make sure you call me at 5078864221 or e-mail me at .