Buying a home can be a stressful, yet rewarding process as your home is most likely the most important (and expensive) purchase that you will make. Knowing what to expect and what to look for are essential to making a good decision. Here are some tips to make the process less intimidating:
Knowing When to Buy: When deciding whether you’re ready to buy a home, consider the stability of your income and weigh your disposable income against your debts and bills. Will your income allow you to pay your bills and mortgage every month?
Things to Consider About a Home: When walking through a potential home, consider whether the home and yard provide you with the room you will need in the future. Make sure the overall structure is in good condition, the included appliances work, and the mechanical systems are functioning. Along with your wish list, it may be a good idea to make a checklist of your major concerns before entering a potential home. You should also ask the homeowner about concerns that are not evident during your visit. For example, you may wish to ask about maintenance issues, taxes, heating costs, or about the neighborhood.
Home Inspection: If the seller of the potential home has not had a pre-listing home inspection completed, it is a good idea for you to have one completed. The inspector will check systems you could not evaluate during your visit, such as the electrical system, insulation, and the water heater. He or she will also provide you with estimates for any necessary repairs. Being present during the inspection allows you to ask questions and learn more about your potential home.
Hiring an Agent: Before making an offer, you may want to hire a real estate agent who will help you through the process from the time of the offer to the time of closing. Hiring a real estate agent can help to alleviate much of the stress caused by the complicated real estate process.
Signing Documents: Consider hiring an attorney to review the sales agreement before signing it. The sales agreement governs the transaction and includes many important terms such as whether and what kind of title warranty there will be, what repairs will be made to the house, whether oil, gas, or mineral rights are included, and many other important items.
If you plan to buy or to sell a home, call Ross & Ross at (814) 274-8612 to let our experienced attorneys handle your Real Estate Closing.
