Testimonial

"Carol,

Thanks so much for everything you did for us when we purchased our home.  Everyone should know that we began last year while still in Texas and you worked with us long distance right up until we bought our house a few weeks ago.  I can't say enough about your professionalism, courtesy and dedication you showed each and every time we met.  You made it so easy from start to finish by connecting us with lenders, inspectors and representing us with the seller no matter what time of the day or what day of the week as you were always just a phone call away, even when you left on vacation and we still bugged you.  For anyone looking for a house, you can find a realtor anywhere, but if you are looking for a Home, call Carol who is always just a "Footestep" away."

 Bruce & Lisa, Shalersville Twp - relocation October, 2008

Advice to Help When You're Buying a Home

First time home buyers might feel better to know that they're not the only ones who feel confused about the process of buying a home. Nearly all home buyers feel the same way, even if they've bought a house in the past, because it's easy to forget the home buying steps you took to get there once the event is behind you.

 

Get Educated

Before you begin, get educated about the home buying customs where you live. Relatives or friends who live in another state might have some good general advice for you, but chances are the process is very different in their area, so avoid the mistake of relying solely on their advice to make important decisions.

So How Do You Get Educated? 

Talk to a real estate agent about the typical home buying scenario.

Questions to Ask Your Real Estate Agent

1. What types of disclosures are sellers in your area required to give to buyers? Can the agent give you a sample copy of typical disclosures?

2. What types of home inspections are standard in your area? Are there other inspections that the agent recommends?

o How much do the inspections usually cost? Are they regarded as a buyer expense?

o When are inspections done?

3. Is a survey required for most transactions? If so, who typically pays for it, the buyer or the seller?

4. Who does the title search to verify that the deed is problem free, attorneys or a title company? What's the average cost for that service?

5. Who acts as settlement agent, the person who puts together final paperwork for you to sign? (attorney, title company personnel, real estate broker, other)?

6. Other than loan costs, what's the average total cost for other closing fees?

o Taxes, settlement agent fees, etc.

7. How long does it usually take to close on a home once an offer is accepted?

That's a good start. After you have the answers to those questions, you'll have a better feeling for the basic customs in your area.

Always Keep a Cool Head 

Even simple problems can be a burden when you have so many details to take care of, so don't over-react if you hit a few snags on the way to closing. Keep a cool head and work with the people helping you through the transaction to resolve any issues that pop up.

Take a few deep breaths and relax. The entire process can be a fun adventure if you let yourself have some fun with it!