Purchasing property is often one of the most exciting and significant experiences of a person’s life. Whether you are searching for a starter home you can simply afford, your dream home, or an investment property as a pillar of your portfolio, buying real estate is often a complex process that requires specialized, local knowledge. Lindsay is a trusted advisor who will set you up for success. Consider the following and connect with Lindsay for detailed advice.
Get Your Finances In Order
The first thing you’ll need to do is put money aside for a down payment. This amount is (at minimum) 5% of the purchase price of the home you’re planning to buy. Second, you’ll need to meet with a mortgage broker to determine what you can afford. Shopping around for the best rate is highly recommended.
Having your mortgage pre-approval in hand is highly recommended in these competitive markets: a pre-approval gives both you and your agent clarity on what’s possible, as well as the ability to act decisively when the right property comes up.
Visualize Your Future Property
Once you’ve established a price range, it’s time to decide what type of home will best suit your lifestyle. Think about things like access to natural and built amenities, schools, and what the neighbourhood is like currently and how it may change in the future. Why you’re choosing to buy should help answer these questions for you — so think about it carefully. Contact Lindsay to request a detailed Buyer’s Survey which gives you a helpful template to reference when considering what’s important to you.
Engage your Real Estate Agent
It’s important to partner with a Real Estate Agent you feel completely comfortable with. A REALTOR® can help you find a home that’s right for you – one that meets your needs, desires and budget. A REALTOR® will set you up with viewing appointments and help bring clarity to the decisions you are making. You’ll want to go with a knowledgeable REALTOR® who you can be sure will represent your best interests.
The Search
Using the property search on this site and consulting with your Real Estate Agent, you will be able to find homes in your desired area. Your Agent will update you frequently on market trends, new listings, and will schedule appointments with sellers.
Closing
Your Real Estate Agent can help you place an offer that the seller will either accept, counter, or reject. After you’ve negotiated an offer, you’ll need to conduct a home inspection and deal with any repairs (the cost of which you can also negotiate with the seller). Finalize your mortgage with a visit to your lender, and you’re ready to sign off on ownership. This typically takes place in a lawyer’s office.
At this point, congratulations are in order! Becoming a new homeowner is one of the most exciting things you’ll ever experience. There are many benefits to home ownership — pride of ownership, the ability to make home improvements, building equity, appreciation — the list goes on.