FIRST TIME BUYER INFORMATION

1. Hire a Real Estate Professional
Your Best Realty Associate can guide you through every step to buying a home. Also, being part of the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), we are able to provide you, and also show you (walk-thru) all the homes on the market whether they are listed with our company or not. Having access to all inventory will make your search a lot easier. Our Sales Associate will write and negotiate the offer-to-purchase for you, they will attend the home inspection with you, and they will also follow-up with your Lender and the Title & Closing Company. Your Best Realty Associate will guide you through the home-buying process from the initial showing of homes thru the day of closing when you are handed your keys!! Please note, there is NO CHARGE to buyers for these services—we receive our compensation from the Seller.

2. Shop for Mortgage Rates and Terms
A difference of even half a percentage point can mean a huge savings over the life of a loan. For example, the difference in the monthly payment on a $100,000 mortgage at 8% vs.7.5% is about $35 per month. Over 30 years, that’s $12,600.

3. Prequalify for a Loan
Your third step should be to get prequalified, which determines how much you can afford. It allows you to move swiftly when you find the right home, especially when there are other interested buyers. It also indicates to the seller that you are serious and really can afford to buy the property.

4. Define What You Want
The next step is to create a realistic idea of the property you’d like to buy. What features are most important to you? Make two lists: one of the items you can’t live without and one of the features you would enjoy. Refine the lists as you house hunt. A good rule of thumb is that if you find 80% of what you’re looking for in a home, you did great!! No matter what your price range is, it is the 80% theory that usually is attached to the home you choose. Let your Best Realty Associate know what is most important to you, so that they can show you houses that meet your expectations.

5. Visit Properties
Now you’re ready to visit houses. Ask your Best Realty Associate to arrange showings, and keep track of the properties you’ve seen. Remember that Best Realty is part of the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). We can show you homes listed with our company, or any other company.

6. Rate the Houses You Tour
After touring each home, write down what you liked and didn’t like. Develop a rating system that will help narrow the field down. For example, pick the house you like best on day one and compare all other houses to it. When you find a better one, use the new favorite as the standard. You will know the “right home” for you, from the moment you step inside it—it will just feel “right” to you!

7. Make an Offer
Once you’ve pinpointed your dream house, it’s time to get serious about the financial and contractual side of the purchase. Your Best Realty Associate will be a strong advantage since you and the seller have different goals.

8. Arrange for a Home Inspection
After your offer is accepted, set up a home inspection. The Home Inspector will check the outside of the home, the roof, grading, electrical, foundation, plumbing, attic, etc. The Home Inspector will not only check for any possible problems, but will also give you tips on home maintenance. Once the inspection is completed, you will have a full written report on this inspection for your records. Your Agent will accompany you on the home inspection, and will help you negotiate with the Seller if repairs are needed.

9. Close
Before your closing date, make sure you’ve made all necessary deposits and completed the paperwork—including mortgage, title, and homeowners insurance. Your Best Realty Associate will also give you a “Buyers Checklist for Moving ” to arrange your new utilities, new info for the post office, etc.

10. Enjoy!
Enjoy your new home! At Best Realty Group, we pride ourselves on helping you find the home of your dreams.