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

Buying a home is a stressful event for many people. However, with a little up-front planning, it's not all that complicated. I like to give buyers an overview of the entire deal so they'll understand exactly what they can expect. Here are my nine steps to buying a home. If you have questions regarding this information or if you're prepared to get started, just contact me here or e-mail me at .

Step 1 – Prepare to buy
There are many things you should consider before you look for a home. When you start your search, you'll probably want to put together a list of features you want to have, get a feel for what neighborhoods and school districts you'd like to live in, and begin planning around your budget. Keeping your mortgage payment less than a third of your monthly income is a good guideline to adhere to.

Step 2 – Connect with a real estate agent
This is where RE/MAX Select Properties comes in. I'd love to schedule a time to meet with you and communicate with you about your real estate needs and get an idea of your upcoming plans. We'll talk about everything from neighborhoods, schools in the Harmony area, the mortgage industry, to any other economic factors that may affect your purchase today or in the future.

I can also help you get started on your loan. I partner with some of the finest mortgage professionals in Harmony, so you can rest assured that you're in great hands. They can assist you with determining which kind of loan is best for you and help you get qualified.

Step 3 – Start your search
After we meet for the first time, I'll start searching for available homes on the market that are great for you. I'll research most of the houses and remove the duds, and then we'll set up appointments to view the homes when it's most convenient for you.

As we view houses, I'll call attention to good features, as well as bad ones. I'll even ask you about things you like and don't like. Generally, buyers change their list of must-haves as we view houses and some things become more essential than others. If that's the situation, I'll search all the listings once more and narrow it down to the house of your dreams.

Step 4 – Understand the housing market
An agent's knowledge of the Harmony home market is a leading factor in your house search. And I can assure you I'm mindful of all the neighborhoods and schools, and I'll communicate certain areas are "hot" and require immediate action and others that are "cold" and allow for thoughtful consideration.

When we view houses, I'll be sure to tell you when the list price has room for bargaining and also when I believe the house is "priced to sell." When working with an agent, trust your instincts and be sure to ask plenty of questions. Every real estate agent will tell you they know the home market. If it appears they don't know everything, just call me at 5078864221 or e-mail me at , and I'd be glad to answer your questions. My market expertise will keep you a step ahead through the entire deal.

Step 5 – Find the home you've been looking for
We'll find your dream home in Harmony, and when we do, I'll thoroughly create your real estate purchase offer. The offer will be tailored to suit your needs and the home, including a lot of contingencies, such as acquiring financing, carrying out the home inspection, and a clear title.

Upon turning in your purchase offer, you'll likely need to present "earnest money." This is a cash deposit made to a home seller to secure the offer to buy the property. The amount is often put towards the closing costs. If your offer is accepted by the seller, we should close within 30 to 60 days after. This allows enough time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate
Unfortunately most deals aren't closed on the beginning offer – it's widely common to receive a counter offer. But don't let this alarm you. We'll consider whether or not to accept the counter offer, submit our own counter offer, or reject the seller's offer and go on.

How aggressively we negotiate the contract depends on the state of the market. We'll also work within your budget. And at the end of the day, we'll assemble a contract that works well for you.

Step 7 – Get your loan
After the contract is finished, you'll start working with your lender to close the loan. This won't take much time at all if you've been pre-qualified, but you should to keep in close contact with your lender. And I'll handle all the property information your lender will need to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
Your lender will provide you with a Loan Estimate (LE) of your closing costs within three days of getting your loan application. You'll get a Loan Estimate (LE) outlining your closing costs from your mortgage lender within three days of accepting your application. The estimate depends on the loan amount. RESPA requirements mandate that it has to contain all closing costs and fall within a precise range of accuracy, and I'll study the estimate and let you know if everything looks adequate.

Then we'll close on your home. This will likely take place at a title company or escrow office and will most often be a smooth and hassle-free event.

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