Tips for Buying A Home

 

Let's talk about Priorities.  Before you instruct your Realtor to find exactly the right property, make sure you know what is important to you.

 

1.       Location, Location, Location  (Some rules never change whether you're buying a lakehouse/second home or permanent residence)

 

*       Consider the importance of view, deep water, protected cove or "slough", steep or flat lot, beach, seawall, boat ramp and pier.

*       Do you want a cabin or a castle?  Someone has to clean it!

*       Maintenance can be an issue if you're a "weekender."

*       The property should "fit" your family.

*       Make sure you want to drive home to this "home" every time.

*       Make sure you're proud to have your friends, family, and co-workers over for dinner or a weekend.

*       No "deal" on earth is worth your embarrassment or excuses over why you're where you are.  Don't settle for less.

 

         2.     The Art of Compromise

 

*       Who really needs to compromise...    Everybody.

*       There is no perfect house; every house will need some change to be "just right" for you.

*       Remember your basic priorities, don't lose a great house over the details.

*       Cosmetics are just cosmetics.  Paint and carpet can make a whole new world!

 

3.     Surroundings

 

*       Your peaceful enjoyment is important.

*       Look at neighboring homes.

*       Find out the time & distance to stores, schools, church, etc.

 

4.     The Buck stops here

 

*       Have your financing in order before you shop.  Have your Realtor refer you to top lenders.

*       Ask your agent to prepare a market analysis on your target home - get a recommendation for fair market value.  If you negotiate toward that number you're in good shape.

*       Remember that the same house costs you more as interest rates increase.

 

5.     Don't mess around

 

*       Have your Realtor assist you in becoming educated in the market - know the areas.

*       After you've compared several homes that fit, narrow the choices to the best.

*       DON'T lose the best choice by procrastinating - if it's the best one for you, it's probably the best one for a competing buyer.