Buying ~ Guiding You Home
Buying a home entails more than looking at a few listings online. Here are some of the services The Compass Group NEO provides to you during the buying process.
-
Explain real estate agency relationships.
-
Maintain communication during the term of our agreement.
-
Analyze your property needs and desires.
-
Orient you to current market conditions.
-
Provide helpful community data.
-
Explain local real estate practices and procedures.
-
Through our Financial Division, Howard Hanna Mortgage services, you will have access to information on lenders and financing alternatives.
-
Search the local multiple listing service for suitable properties.
-
Provide detailed information and disclosures, if applicable, on properties.
-
Coordinate appointments and show all properties of interest, whether or not the properties are Howard Hanna listings.
-
Provide relevant market data to educate you as to current fair market value of available properties.
-
Disclose all material defects of the property of which I have actual knowledge.
-
Discuss relevant data about the Seller known by me.
-
Explain the process of offer presentation.
-
Deliver Seller’s State Mandated Property Disclosure Form.
-
Carefully explain and prepare offer to purchase form(s).
-
Arrange to present all offers to Seller or Seller’s agents, in a timely manner.
-
Strive to obtain the best possible price and terms for you.
-
Explain post-purchase activities and responsibilities.
-
Follow-up on all post-purchase activities.
-
Keep confidential any information you designate in writing as confidential.
Every buyer is different, and every buying experience is different but most of the motivation to start the process can be broken down to a few categories.
First Time Homebuyer
Congratulations on your decision to buy your first home! Such an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming. So many questions, so many unfamiliar words like escrow and amortization and contingency.
Don’t worry, The Compass Group NEO can guide you through the entire process, explaining every step along the way.
We have the answers to these commonly asked questions from buyers who are thinking of buying their first home.
-
I have student loans from college. Can I still buy a house?
-
What is earnest money?
-
I have heard friends talk about PMI? What is it and will I need it?
-
How long does it take to buy a house?
-
How much money will I need? I don’t know if I will have 20% to put down.
-
Do I need a realtor to buy a house? How much will a realtor cost?
-
How do I get started?
Right Size/Empty Nester
Is your house not working with your current lifestyle? Right sizing is the way to find a home that allows for better use of your space and enhances your life. It reflects the quality of the space and not the quantity of rooms. The Compass Group NEO can help you determine what your features you will need for your next home, and the best way to move forward.
Some questions to consider:
-
How are you using the rooms in your house?
-
Are rooms are used only for special occasions or storage.
-
How often do you need guest rooms for overnight guests?
-
Are any rooms only used as a walk through to reach other parts of the home?
-
Can your current home and floorplan easily accommodate your daily activities?
-
In 5 years, do you expect to be living the same lifestyle? Will changes in your friends and family’s lives affect how you use your home?
-
Do you have a house to sell? Can you buy before selling?
-
How do I get started?
Move Up Buyer
Although you might love your first home, life changes can alter how we live and the amount of space we need. If you have decided that it is time to look for a new house, The Compass Group NEO can help you find your next nest that will fit your changing life.
Some of the questions to think about when contemplating a new house:
-
What would you add to your current home to make it work for your current and future needs?
-
How long do you think you will be in your next home? Are you anticipating any job transfers?
-
What do you love and dislike about your current home?
-
What are the “must haves” on list for your next home?
-
Are there any specific parameters that would affect your decision? School districts? Commute time? Do you have to live within a specific drive time to work?
-
How big of a change can you comfortably afford?
-
If you currently have a home, do you need to sell it before buying?
-
How do I get started?
Relocation
Moving across the state or across the country is equally stressful. It can be challenging to pick a city, neighborhood and new home in the few days allotted for a buying visit. Online research can only take you so far – the time spent on your buying trip should be used wisely.
Some items to consider for a successful buying experience:
-
What aspects of your current hometown/home would you like to replicate in your move?
-
Will any costs or services (ex. temporary housing) be covered by an employer?
-
Familiarize yourself with the local tax ordinances. Taxes can dramatically alter the mortgage amount you qualify for and feel comfortable budgeting.
-
Homes in your search area may have features that are uncommon in your current region. Understanding these features will expedite the home buying process.
-
Pairing yourself with a realtor who listens to you and knows the regional market will add to your success. Even with a relocation package, you may be able to request a specific realtor.
-
How do I get started?