What Can You Afford?
When buying a home, most people will need to acquire a mortgage loan. If you’re not already working with a loan officer, Harvey can suggest a few reputable lenders who can help determine the price range for a home you can afford. The lender can also pre-qualify you for a loan amount by considering your income, bills you currently have and the amount of your down payment, which is generally 5% of the purchase price, but the more you can pay down the better. You will also want to consider the interest rate, and whether it is variable or fixed. If variable, determine when you can lock it in and if it will cost you anything to do so. If you have excellent credit, you should get the lowest rate offered. Another expense is closing costs, which include appraisals, recording fees and more, but the lender should provide a "good faith estimate" of all out-of-pocket expenses.
How Harvey Can Help You Find The Right Property
Beginning your home search? With so many houses on the market, and so many real estate agents to choose from, do you need to call them all to gather information about each of the homes you like? No. You only need one agent, no matter how many homes you want to see.
Actually, you might want to choose an agent before you even begin your home search. Here's why. Most agents are able to show not only their own listings, but those of all other agents too. Agents have a professional fee-splitting arrangement that encourages showings of all homes, so you can see as many as possible, without the inconvenience of moving from agent to agent. Agents and companies provide each other with complete information on all homes for sale, so you can work with a single agent to obtain details about any property you choose.
Harvey is experienced in helping to resolve conflicts that can occur with even the easiest of transactions. Whether a real estate transaction is easy or difficult, it often gives rise to emotions, which may affect your judgment in a home buying decision. As a trained professional, Harvey will give you suggestions and un-biased opinions during this time, because finding the right home for you is his top priority.
Start Your Search Now
If you are planning to buy a home, searching the Internet is a good place to start gathering basic information. In fact, 92% of homebuyers use the Internet to preview homes and locate real estate offices. If you want to begin your search from the comfort of home while relaxing in your pajamas, you can start your search here by viewing our featured listings or by viewing all the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS) listings.
