Buying your first home is no simple task. It is likely the largest financial decision you will ever make. Therefore, it is important to work with a buyer’s agent that understands your needs and wants. You are not just hiring our company, but building a partnership for life.
Next Step Realty will not only help you find your first home but will consult with you to make sure you are making the right financial decision for the future. Our team provides specialists in all areas and each agent offers a high level of expertise.
How Much Can You Afford?
Speak to a reputable lender to identify your budget. They will help you qualify by considering your expenses such as taxes, insurance, utilities, HOA or condo fees, and of course, your monthly mortgage payment. During this process, it is important to keep your credit clean and avoid making any large purchases (cars, furniture, other credit applications, etc.).
Whether you are searching online or having one of our agents prepare a search result from the MLS, you want to identify specific criteria for your home search.
- Type of Home
- Number of Bedrooms
- Number of Bathrooms
- Parking
- Size of Lot
- Schools
- Location
- Price Range
Once you have narrowed down your criteria of the type of homes you want to see, the fun starts! Our agents will provide a printed overview of each home and schedule an appointment for a tour. When seeing multiple homes at one time, make sure you take notes to distinguish the differences, identifying the pros and cons of each home.
Once you have found the home you want, you will sit with your agent to prepare the offer. This meeting will entail many decisions including offering price, time of settlement, inspections, appraisal and closing help. You and your agent will discuss the best strategy to prepare the offer that will meet your needs and if you are bidding against other offers, our agents are experts in negotiations and contract writing to put your best foot forward.
Your Contract has been accepted and ratified
Once your offer has been accepted, your agent will walk you through the next steps to prepare for closing. This will entail working closely with your lender, title company, home inspector, and appraiser. We take care of all the details and dates so you don’t have to worry.
Upon preparing for settlement, your agent will take you through a final walk-through of the home to ensure everything is exactly the way you want before settlement. The title company will provide the information you need and all documents necessary to bring to settlement. You will execute all documents, exchange funds, and acquire the keys to your new home!
