7 Steps to Buying

STEP 1
Get Pre-approved for a Mortgage

When if comes to buying a home, getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a very important step.
Not only does it help you understand exactly how much you can afford to spend on a home, it often allows you to lock in an interest rate for a period of time which could potentially save you thousands of dollars for years to come. 
As a first time home buyer, getting pre-approved before you start house hunting is one of the most vital things you can do.
 
Know the difference between being pre-qualified and being pre-approved.
 

1. Pre-qualified Simply means that based on general information you provide a bank or mortgage broker, like annual income, credit and debt, they will suggest the amount of the mortgage you can afford.
2. Pre-approved. You want to be pre-approved before looking for a home. Pre-approved is a guarantee in writing by a lender to grant you a loan up to a specified amount (subject to receiving full documentation). With a pre-approval you will know exactly what you can afford when looking for a home, and when you find the right home you will be one step closer.

A pre-approved Buyer means seller’s have one less thing to worry about.  Even though many offers are conditional on financing, the seller of your Dream Home will have more confidence in you as a Buyer when they know you are pre-approved.
 

STEP 2
Make a Needs and Want List

  .What communities or specific streets do I want to consider.  Is it    important to be near schools, parks, shopping centres, places of worship, or other amenities?
    .What type of home do I want? It could be a detached home, attached home,  a bungalow,  split level, a two storey, a townhome, an apartment condo—so many options to consider.  You may also wish to consider to age of home and lot size. 
 

STEP 3
Choosing the Best Agent for You

Top 5 Reasons Why Most Homebuyers Choose to Work with a Real Estate Professional

1. To Save Time and Money
2. To Avoid Overpaying
3. To Represent and Protect Your Interests As A Buyer
4. To Negotiate The Best Possible Price And Terms For You
5. To Manage The Countless Details

STEP 4
Property Searches Online and Off

Most homebuying searches begin online.  In fact, over 90% of buyers start online.  The internet is a very helpful resource, but it’s not a complete picture of the market or all potential properties available.
 
Here’s what you typically can’t see online
 

1. Home in Hot Markets that Haven’t Made it Online Yet—These are desirable homes in great areas, at great prices that often get sold before a property listing is loaded online.  The best way to know about them is through a great agent.
2. Expired Listings Or Private Sales Not Found on MLS—A savvy real estate professional is on the pulse of all potential homes for sale, listed and unlisted.
3. Key Insight And An Insider’s Edge—The internet is chalk full of information, but a great agent will bring an insider’s perspective, provide key insights and expertise so you can be confident in knowing you have a complete picture of each property you are considering.

STEP 5
Searching For Your Dream Home

When searching for a home remember there is no perfect home.  A home that meets 85% of what you are looking for may be a great match for you.
 
Once you have found the house you love, here’s how the offer process typically works:
Step 1:  Decide on Price, Terms and Conditions—You will need to decide on a closing date and if there will be any conditions of the offer such as home inspection, appraisal, water tests, etc.  Not to worry though,, O will guide you through every step.
Step 2:  Preparing the Offer—As your agent, I will prepare the offer documentation that ensures your interests are protected and your instructions are followed.
Step 3:  Reviewing the Offer—Once the offer is prepared we will review it together, virtually or in person.  When you’re ready, I’ll walk you through the digital e-signature process for a safe and seamless virtual offer process.
Step 4:  Presenting the Offer—As your agent, I will present the offer to the Seller’s agent and negotiate fearlessly on your behalf.
 
Once the offer is presented, one of three things will occur:
1.     The Seller accepts your offer.  Congratulations!
2.     The Seller rejects your offer.  This isn’t common, but it can happen and as your agent I will work to find out why.
3.     The Seller Countersigns.  Changing the terms of the offer and presents the offer back to you.  Rest assured, I will continue to negotiate on your behalf to reach agreeable terms.  I will also advise you if it’s clear that reasonable terms can’t be reached and it’s time to walk away. 
 

STEP 6
Condition Removal and Inspection

Once and offer has been accepted, it’s time to satisfy any conditions or contingencies within the time frame designated.
CONDITION REMOVAL—This usually involves performing a home inspection, a bank appraisal, and any other personal information your lender may require.
HOME INSPECTION TIPS—Choose a licensed professional.  Ensure the home inspector checks for visible issues with plumbing, electrical systems, roof, insulation, walls, ceilings, floors and windows and the condition of the foundation.  Ensure your present for the home inspection which can take upwards of 3 hours and if there are any problems, you will see them. Ensure you receive a detailed report that summarizes the condition and age of the home.
 

STEP 7
 Prepare for Closing Day

 
Here are a few details to take care of before you Possession Date:
 
. LEGAL STUFF AND PAPERWORK—As your agent, I will make sure your lawyer get all the necessary paperwork.
.DOWNPAYMENT AND CLOSING COSTS—Be sure to have these funds available for your lawyer 1 week prior to possession.
.MOVING ARRANGEMENTS AND CHANGE OF ADDRESS
.PROPERTY INSURANCE—Be sure to arrange for home insurance before possession.
.UTILITIES—Be sure to contact local utility company to coordinate change of billing on possession.  Including phone, internet, cable, gas electricity, water and any rental agreements. 
.SCHOOLS—Don’t forget to inform your children’s old and new schools about the move and arrange any necessary record transfers.