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House Buying
Checklist |
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Be an informed buyer. Gather as much information as you
can.
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Buying your first home?
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Familiarize yourself with the
process.
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Begin the application process
by getting Prequalified or Preapproved from a Mortgage Lender. Do this
first. Your Agent will need your mortgage qualification, and it will
significantly strengthen your offer when you find a home. |
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Get your finances
in focus as soon as possible. Since it is an important component, be
aware of your credit situation.
 Having
your credit report in hand makes it much easier to decide which way to
proceed. . |
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The best time to work on your
budget
is
before
you move.
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Wondering about how much time
is needed to buy a home? Talk to your Agent. There are lots of
considerations: area, time of year, etc. |
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Determine your housing needs
and wants
to determine what types of houses you should be considering. |
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Familiarize yourself with the
various types of housing
available: Single family, townhouse or condo, for instance. |
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If you are planning on buying
or building a new home, talk to the Agent, after buying your land, to
help you find a contractor in your area. |
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Have general questions about
buying a home? Your Agent can give you publications or help to assist
you with the process. |
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Still have a question about a
Real Estate term or its definition? Ask your Agent. They can
help you understand all the definitions.
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House Hunting Time! Make
sure you discuss with your Agent the area, school district or what
your priorities are in determining the right home for you. |
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Familiarize yourself with how
to get the best value for your home.
This can save you a great deal of time and helps to avoid
disappointment. |
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When you find an acceptable
house, Then, you and your Agent can help you write and offer.
Familiarize yourself with how offers become contracts.
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Negotiate
your best deal using the information you have acquired. |
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If you haven't already done so,
make a mortgage loan request. |
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Arrange for a home inspection.
Protect yourself and do not skip this step! |
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Learn about home warranties
and what they cover. |
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Compare and secure home
insurance.
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Arrange for closing agent or
attorney. Make sure all paperwork is ready for your final closing |
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Make plans to move your
furniture, etc.
If you plan to use a moving company, make comparisons and reserve time
now. |
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Secure final loan approval and
commitment from the lending institution. If you have done your
"up-front" work, this should be one of your easiest steps. |
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Do a final walk through
of the house. |
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Final closing and settlement. |
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Move to your new home and begin
enjoying it--you deserve it! |
