| Are you going through all those anxiety pangs that one | | | | 5. Once your agent provides you with a list of |
| normally gets while mulling over the decision of buying | | | | properties that are affordable, you can drive by to |
| a home? Homebuyers are an anxious lot, eager for | | | | check the neighborhood. Look for a house in a location |
| useful real estate information. It pays to get yourself | | | | that has good potential for future appreciation. |
| acquainted with the steps involved in the purchase of | | | | Consider factors like safety, school districts, freeway |
| a home. | | | | access, recreational options, work commute time, |
| Here's a list of important things to know before buying | | | | shopping facilities etc. |
| a home. | | | | 6. Check out a sufficient amount of real estate until |
| 1. The first step is to find out how much you can | | | | you develop a sense of comparative value of each |
| afford or qualify for. Check your credit report to know | | | | neighborhood. Your real estate agent can help you |
| your credit worthiness. Clear up problems if any | | | | with the valuation.Visiting the localities at different points |
| before going to a lender. A good credit rating will result | | | | in time during the day is ideal. This will help narrow |
| in you receiving lower interest rates. | | | | down the list. You might want to check during the |
| 2. Get pre-approved for a mortgage from a mortgage | | | | morning commute, or after dark to verify that the |
| broker or lender, with a commitment to fund your | | | | neighborhood suits you. |
| mortgage in writing. Look out for frequent payment | | | | 7. When you have found a house of your choice, |
| options and prepayment options, which would help | | | | compare its price with other houses in the area. Get |
| knock off some years from your mortgage. And | | | | your real estate agent to assess the value of the |
| finally, settle for comfortable monthly payments. Once | | | | home.If all looks good, write an offer! |
| pre-approved for a loan, you will know your price | | | | 8. Lastly, consult your real estate agent to be sure that |
| range to begin shopping for real estate. | | | | you obtain any professional inspections necessary to |
| 3. You should buy the real estate that is right for you. | | | | answer any questions you may have about the |
| Make a wish list of all the specifications you want in | | | | property.Some concerns may include: the condition of |
| your home. Prioritize them based on your wants and | | | | the roof, foundation, walls, plumbing, electrical, windows, |
| needs. Then mark out those aspects that you are | | | | etc.Other concerns may be: Is the property in a flood |
| willing to compromise on, in case you need to. | | | | zone, or wildfire area.Is the property subject to |
| 4. Get a good, reputable Real Estate Agent to assist | | | | Mello-Roos? Are there CC& Rs? Are there any |
| you in locating a property in a desirable location. Your | | | | easements on the property, etc.Your professional Real |
| Real Estate Agent will know where to help you look | | | | Estate Agent will assist you in answering these and |
| for properties, while keeping your preferences and | | | | other questions you may have prior to closing escrow |
| price range in mind. | | | | on a property. |