As a REALTOR, I will be on your side as the professional who acts on your behalf, I will give you my advice and opinion when needed.
As a REALTOR, I will use my access to the MLS (Multiple Listing System) system in order to search and find the best properties that mach your needs.
As a REALTOR, I will check for you the property history, will pre-view the property before I will show it for you and I will give you my opinion regarding a reasonable price, based on CMA (Comparative market analysis).
As a REALTOR, I can supply you with information about the taxes and HOA fees that are related to the property.
As a REALTOR, I will assist you during all the steps towards buying your new home, I will give you a list of professionals you can hire and negotiate the contract with your best interest in mind.
How an agency between you and a REALTOR created?
An agency created after you sign the following two forms:
IABS (Information about broker services) form: this form does not obligate you to ANYTHING, but the REALTOR is obligated by federal law to have your signature on this form that explains the agency types.
Buyers represention agreement: this agreement explains the mutual duties of the buyer and the agent, defines the period of the agency and agent compensation. This agreement protects both the buyer and the agent.
Be aware that a REALTOR IS NOT an attorney, so if you don't understand everything in this forms, you should consider consulting an attorney!
When visit a potential house…
Before visiting a potential house ask your REALTOR to see the seller's disclosure, this document may give you a first impression of the house's condition.
A "seller's disclosure" document is not a substitute for an inspection. This is only seller's unprofessional opinion.
When you visit a house, pay attention to the surrounding trees, if the trees are too close to the house, their roots may damage the house's foundations.
If you have kids it will be good idea to ask the REALTOR about the school district and about nearest schools.
Once inside the house, pay attention to the walls and the ceiling to see if you can detect mold or leeks presence.
Spend some time and visit the neighborhood during the evening hours, speak with the neighbors.
And the best advice - even if you find a great house DON'T skip an inspection!
First time home buyer “Need to Know” checklist
Know yourself – what are you looking for? What are your needs? What type of home would fit your current stage of life?
Know your budget – meat your banker, do your math and know exactly how much you can spend when buying a house. You can use our “How much can I afford” calculator on our Calculators page.
Know your area – researching your area will help you narrow down the search area. Research the neighborhood, the school district, available parks and amenities etc.
Know you monthly payments – after you buy a house your monthly payments will not end with the mortgage. There are property taxes, HOA fees etc. Knowing them will help you do a more financially educated decision.
Know your system – set up a system to compare properties. Some use paper, some use excel sheets, some use pictures and other visualizing means. Whatever works for you is fine, but you must have a system to compare the properties you see.
Know it when you see it – if you find the house that fits your needs and budget BUY IT! Don’t wait to the next perfect home, it might not show up
First Time Home Buyers Tax Credit - $8000 Tax Credit
