How to start?

Few people are ever really properly prepared to buy a house. You need to determine what you wish to achieve in buying a new home. Consider what factors are most important to you. The basic considerations are 1) Price 2) Location taking into consideration convenience to schools, shopping, commuting 3) Style 4) # of BRs 5) total # of rooms and type i.e. formal DR. Then think of lot, views, garage, new construction. You will no doubt see homes as well that offer features you didn’t believe you would like. Compare and keep score of the houses you see.

Your mortgage.

First, you need to get an idea of approximately much you can afford. Equally as important is determining what kind of a mortgage you should get. There are over 50 type of loans available,  getting the right loan could save you huge savings. For instance, if you are only going to be in a house for a few years before you move on you do not need a 30 year mortgage with a higher fixed rate @ 6.065% - go for a 3 year fixed rate @ 5 1/8%.  Make sure you have an idea of what your credit score is and cleanup if necessary. Be prepared to provide your life history to the bank as they will ask for everything anyway.

Pre Approved buyer

Being pre-approved is huge in the negotiating process in your favor. As the financing contingency is one of the two most factors in a real estate contract, giving the seller some confidence that you are actually going to get a mortgage and consummate the transaction is very important. It is almost like a cash offer and usually translates in the seller willing to sell at a lower price to you. Also, while being pre-qualified gives the seller some measure of comfort, a lender's pre-approval letter is considerably stronger. To a seller, he won’t have to worry for 20 – 30 days while you go off seeking approval – a process that they have no control over.

Inspections, Why Do I Need A Home Inspection

Hey, this is the most important financial decision most people ever make. Inspections may cost up to 1% of the cost of your home. Still not a bad investment considering. You can have inspections or test on the following; house, septic, wood destroying, water, well, radon in air, radon in water, EMF, UFFI, and lead. Quite a laundry list here and you can have all performed or some depending on your level of comfort and applicability. Inspections gives you an understanding exactly what you're buying, giving you some peace of mind by eliminating surprises later on and helps in making a sound buying decision. The home inspection reveals the need for repairs or replacements before you buy as well as tips for maintenance. A good home inspection also gives you invaluable details about your new home in addition to information about the condition of the property. You'll learn where the main shutoff valves to the utilities are located, how the house operates and more! What if I'm buying a newly constructed home? Why not? Still an idea to get an independent evaluation of the builder’s techniques.

There are so many more questions to ask and we will be happy to take the time to answer.