Purchasing and investing in real estate is a big deal. For most Americans, the purchase of a home is the most expensive purchase they will ever make. But choosing to fly solo in such a major transaction could end up being more costly than a real estate agent’s commission. So how do you choose a real estate agent?
Not All Agents Are Created Equal
When you’re looking for a real estate professional to help you, know that above all else, a good agent will put their clients first. The agent you choose is going to be your advocate to help you make your dream of home ownership come true.
Real estate agents are often chosen solely on the recommendation of a friend or family member. It is best if you do your own research: check how long they have been in business; talk to recent clients or request recommendations; look up their licensing information; and finally, choose someone that is right for you.
A Great Agent Will Help:
Educate you about the current market conditions.
Analyze what you want and what you need in your home.
Coordinate the work of other professionals throughout the process.
Find homes that fit your criteria and budget.
Negotiate on your behalf to get you the best deal possible.
Explain and guide you through the submission of your offer.
Check and double-check paperwork and deadlines.
Inform and discuss with you everything that is going on. They will also suggest solutions to any problems that may arise.
Remember, a home is an investment. Choosing a good agent and consulting with them will ensure that you are making an informed decision.
If you are ready to purchase a home, contact one of our Licensed Mortgage Loan Originators today to get started!
Moving into a new home is an exciting experience, and an important life milestone. Whether it’s the first time you’ve ever moved, or if you’ve moved many times before, being unprepared can make it stressful. Here’s a schedule for the month leading up to your move-in date to help you get prepared and stay prepared for this new chapter in your life:
Four Weeks Prior to Move:
Set up a calendar for your move.
Have a garage sale.
Contact a local charity to donate any unneeded furniture.
Gather moving supplies: boxes, tape, rope, etc.
Collect all medical, dentist, and school records.
Collect all financial, tax, and employment documentation that may be needed for your mortgage loan.
Contact your insurance company to transfer your policies (life, auto, homeowners).
Three Weeks Prior to Move:
Arrange a cutoff date and a date for new service with your utility companies (telephone, gas, electric, water, garage, and cable).
Call friends and relatives and let them know you are moving.
Check out voter registration information.
Donate canned goods to a local charity.
Send out change of address forms to newspapers, magazines, and associations.
Notify the post office of your move. Fill out a change of address card.
Review tax deductions on moving expenses.
2 Weeks Prior to Move:
Transfer stocks, bonds, bank accounts, and contents of safety deposit boxes.
Start packing.
Check ALL previous items. You still have time!
1 Week Prior to Move
Clean your refrigerator and let it air out at least 24 hours before moving.
Drain outdoor equipment: water from hoses, propane tanks from barbeque grills, and gas and oil from lawn movers.
Dispose of any aerosol cans, paint, oils, flammable, and/or toxic chemicals. Click here for a list of hazardous household products, and check out these tips on disposing of them safely.
Label items you need to easily access and place them in a separate room or closet.
Arrange for pest control before moving into your new home, especially on new construction.
Moving Day
RELAX!
Remember that items packed last will be unloaded first.
Once everything is out of the house, take one last look through the house: cabinets, closets, behind doors, attics, stairwells, overhead in the garage, outside the home, and any storage sheds.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully moved in. Buying a new house is an exciting accomplishment. Take some time to sit back and enjoy your new home – you’ve earned it.
Moving doesn’t have to be an overwhelming experience. Being well-prepared will help you eliminate stress from the moving process and transition smoothly into your new home. Click here for more moving information and tips.
For a printable version of this checklist, click here.
If you are looking to begin the home-buying process soon, click here to contact one of our Licensed Mortgage Loan Originators today to pre-qualify and begin the home searching process with confidence.
