THE BUYING PROCESS

We prefer smooth and worry-free to overwhelming and chaotic when it comes to the buying process. The more prepared you are at the outset, the more successful the buying process will be. We’ve prepared the following tips to assist you as you begin the journey.

If you have additional questions regarding “Buyer Tips” and would like more information, please feel free to contact your REALTOR®.

BUYER TIPS

Get pre-approved: As a pre-approved buyer you have better leverage when it comes to negotiating with the seller. The pre-approval process is simple and shows sellers that you are a serious buyer.

Prepare, list and sell your current home: If you already own a home you’ll want to make sure you sell it before purchasing another one. Securing a loan is much easier when your previous home is sold.

Research the market: Once you know where you’re going to buy, find out what homes are selling for and how long they typically stay on the market in that area. Don’t be afraid to look at homes that aren’t in your immediate price range at first – knowing what’s selling will give you a better big-picture view of the market. Having an Block Group powered by Work Shop Realty REALTOR® who knows the market will give you a serious advantage when it comes time to make an offer.

Be prepared to submit an offer: The purchase contract should be kept simple and without any unnecessary conditions, especially repairs. A seller will be more interested in an offer that is not going to be slowed down or delayed by things that do not severely affect the value of the home.

Find an agent you trust: By now you know this, buying a home can be complicated. Having an experienced Innovative Real Estate Group REALTOR® who can keep your best interests in mind will have a significant impact when you’re buying a home and maximizing your investment.

NEEDS vs WANTS

Choosing the right home, the perfect neighborhood, the ideal floor plan – it can become overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Getting your thoughts down on paper may be a constructive way to help channel your ideas. Think about the most important factors you’re considering and list them in one of two categories: needs and wants.

Creating a list of “needs” and narrowing down the “wants” will help you prioritize the features as you consider and view potential homes. Keep in mind that you may have to compromise on the “want” items to stay within your budget. To the right is an example of a typical “needs vs. wants” list. On the next page of this guide, you’ll find a checklist to help you organize your thoughts.

Needs

• Good Location with Highway Access
• Features in Good Condition
• Appliances Included
• Light Fixtures in all Rooms
• Spacious Family Room
• Large Master
• Unfinished Basement
• 1-2 Car Garage
• Low Maintenance Landscaping

Wants

• Pool / Community Pool
• Hardwood Floors, Tile, Granite
• Stainless Steel Appliances
• Upgraded Lighting Fixtures
• Large Bedrooms
• 5 Piece Master Bath
• Finished Basement
• 3 Car Garage
• Large Yard