IMPROTANT THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN BUYING A HOME

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National Home Search



If you are in the market to buy a home, the process can seem overwhelming. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you begin your home search.

Contact a local real estate agent
The first step is to find a local real estate agent who is familiar with the market which you are interested in. This alone can be a process, so make sure you are well informed. Do your research and ask questions until you find someone who is experienced and one you can trust.

Know what you are looking for
Remember it is hard to get everything you want when buying a home. So, think about what most important to you. It’s good to jot down the requirements of what most important to you. What are your must-haves and what you willing to compromise on? Communicate those needs to your real estate agent.

Consider the Cost of Homeownership
Owning a home costs more than just the mortgage payment so, budget accordingly. In addition to your monthly payments, consider property taxes, utility bills, homeowner’s insurance, and Home Owner’s Association (HOA) dues, (if there are any). You also want to think about transportation and the cost of living in your new neighborhood. You may also plan on some upgrades and repairs if you are purchasing a reseal home. Remember larger the home is the greater the utility and maintenance expenses.

Location Is Important
A home is only worth as much as it’s neighborhood. So, be sure that you purchase a home in a neighborhood you like to live in. Again, make a list. What kind of neighborhood would you like? If you have school-age kids, the school district might be very important to you. How far are you willing to commute to and from work? And what is the overall feel of your ideal community? If you have never visited the area that you would like to live in do so (more than once if possible). Make sure this is where you can imagine yourself living.

Know Your Loans-Financing Options
Every home loan advertisement looks great on paper but what’s in is the fine print? Make sure you know your interest rates, down payment requirements, and penalties. Make sure your loan officer go over these with you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if something is not clear. Also, don’t be afraid to shop around and turn down loan offers that seem troubling or confusing.

Obtain Full Property Disclosure and Home Inspection
By law, the home seller is obligated to disclose any problems with the home or condo that you are buying. However, there may be additional costly repairs such as foundation problems that the current owner is not aware of. So, hire a professional home inspector to inspect the home. Your real estate agent should be able to recommend a quality home inspector. Get a professional home inspection regardless of whether or not purchasing a new or reseal home. You don’t want to buy a home that may potentially cost you thousands of dollars in additional repairs.

Get Everything in Writing.
Real estate jargon can be confusing. Get it all in writing and if you don’t understand something, make sure to ask your real estate agent. To buy a home, it is imperative that you collect each piece of information and the overall transaction in writing so, that you are covered in case something goes wrong.

Before Closing
Before your purchase is final, make sure to purchase home insurance and title insurance. In addition, consider purchasing a home warranty, if it’s not included in the transaction. On the day of closing do a final walkthrough with your real estate agent to make sure the home is in the same condition as it was when you initially agreed to purchase.


Tax deductions
Owning a home will also qualify you for certain tax deductions. It is important that you take advantage of them each year. Your tax preparer will help you get these deductions.


Get Excited
Most importantly, get excited. You will now be a proud homeowner and this is a big accomplishment. A place to call your own! The first step to buying your home is to find a local real estate agent in your area to help you. CENTURY 21 REALTY only works with the best real estate agents in each city. Let CENTURY 21 REALTY help you find your real estate agent today.

To find your dream home in Atlanta/Metro Atlanta click here National Home Search click here



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