Short sales, while they do take somewhat longer than a regular sale, many home prices are still discounted. In some areas homes are still receiving multiple offers. Get prequalified to find out where you stand.
For those of you optimistically thinking about going out and buying a home, call your agent. Note, I said your agent not the listing agent. You want to keep all your communications with the buyer's agent who is working in your interest. Your agent can help you get the full scoop on the property that your interested in and guide you every step of the way through the transaction. Plus, the buyer's agent is technically paid for by the listing agent, not by you, the buyer. For you, the buyer's agent is a free consumer service.
Buying a home should not be a spur of the moment decision. Make sure your current income situation is a stable one. You should calculate what your monthly expenses will be and make sure you have enough left over to save for a rainy day. There are many ways to manage or minimize this cash at closing number as long as you comparison shop things like hazard insurance, title insurance, loan fees, and having some of your closing costs paid for by the seller.
If you have begun shopping for a home with your buyer's agent by your side, I hope you have given them a nice wants and needs list. I have found most of my clients prefer a fixed up home to any other but they recognize they will be paying for it. Items to consider for your list might include things like hardwood floors, nice large updated kitchen and baths with granite countertops, designer tile in the bath/shower areas, open floor plan, large master bedroom. Of course, your list can go on and on, so try to prioritize it as to what your needs are over your wants.
Whether you plan on buying around the corner, or across the country, the Internet is a smart place to get started.
No pressure shopping is what you can expect on the Internet. Here you can learn about the broader real estate market and what's available in your price range.The first step to buying real estate wisely, is to make sure you get pre approved by a lender. This way you will know if you need to improve your score or if you can get a good loan with a great rate as well as how much you qualify for in regards to the loan itself. Other advantages include a solid breakdown on what type of money you will need upfront, for closing costs, and the time frame that it will take to close the loan once you place a home under contract.
Now that you have hired a buyer's agent and found out what you are able to buy from working directly with your lender, you are ready to roll up your sleeves and get busy shopping for a home to buy. To get started, make a list of the things about the home and area that would be important to you. This should include things like what the location has to offer, the quality of the schools, general area safety, and easy access to shopping, recreation, and whatever else you deem important to you. Springfield Homes Fort Mill