10 Helpful Tips to Take The Mystery Out of the Home Buying Process

As a realtor, I realize there is a steep learning curve as well as many emotions that you will experience when you purchase a home. Taking the time to become educated on the local market is important, as this is probably the biggest investment you will make in regards to your financial future. It is not only an exciting experience dreaming about your new home, but it can be a stressful one, as well.

Price negotiations, bidding wars and home inspections can sometimes be tumultuous. To alleviate some of this stress, here are a few things to consider during this transitional, as well as transactional time.

1. Sellers usually interview agents, but buyers more often stumble upon whom they work with. Do your homework to choose a full-time, experienced agent with a good reputation who is trustworthy, knowledgeable, local and well liked by other agents. This can be much more important to keep the deal together then most people realize.

2. Make sure to clearly communicate your real estate goals, timelines, wants and needs to your agent. The more communication the better,

3. Begin the mortgage process before going out to look at homes and consult with more than one lender to find the best fit. Even for buyers the most qualified buyers, getting a mortgage has become a complex process. Finding someone who is responsive and who you feel comfortable with will make the process less painful.

4. If you currently own a home. Talk to your lender to determine if you need to sell first, before purchasing. This will let you know where to focus your initial efforts.

5. Remember, it's your agent's job is to take the emotion out of the process. Realize that your realtor sees all the moving parts and keeps the end result in mind at all times. Trust that you agent has your best interest at heart always.

6. If you are looking for a “deal” but are not attached to which property you are purchasing, finding a motivated seller is key and it might take some time and you may go through multiple properties to find the right fit.

7. Before making any offer, be sure to read the Seller’s Property Condition Disclosure, so you have all of the important information about the property. Your agent should also do a market analysis and inquire about the motivation of the seller. It is advisable to find out if there are any other interested buyers, how long the property has been on the market or if there have been any other offers. This will help you to make an informed decision on where to begin your initial offer.

8. The process of purchasing a home goes the smoothest when the negotiations are done fairly, in good faith and are viewed as a “win-win” by both the buyer and the seller. It is helpful to respond to the seller’s counter-offers in a reasonable amount of time and always keep an open mind. Happy sellers tend to be more cooperative if you need access to the home before closing, flexibility during move-in/move out, assistance with explaining household systems or with any questions you may have after closing. Also, the seller is more likely to address items uncovered during your inspections, if the experience has been a positive one.

9. If you become involved in a “bidding war,” try to stay calm. Each scenario is unique and you will need to rely on your agents experience and advice during this time. Writing a letter and sending a photo to the seller telling them why you love their home can put a face to your name and can be very advantageous.

10. Home inspections are intended to uncover structural, environmental, and material defects. Make sure to factor in any cosmetic fixes and wear and tear into the sales price and don’t overpay thinking you will be able to renegotiate during inspections. Hold your ground during the initial negotiations.

I love working with buyers and educating them on this process. If you are currently in search of an agent who possesses the attributes described above as well as one who will keep your best interest at heart, please don’t hesitate to contact me. It would be a pleasure to work with you.

Kelly Zaccaro, ABR CRS - Realtor
Heritage House Sotheby's International Realty
23 W River Rd
Rumson NJ 07760
O 732-842-8100 x113 | M 732-492-8224

http://www.KellyZaccaro.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ke...

NJ Realtors Circle of Excellence Sales Award -
Platinum 2012-13,2015, Gold 2011, Silver 2014, Bronze 2010