Buying or selling a home in Davie?

Buying a home is a stressful event for many people. However, with a little planning ahead of time, it isn't all that complex. I like to supply buyers with an overview of the entire deal so they'll understand exactly what they can expect. Below are my nine steps to buying a home. If you have questions about this information or if you're prepared to get started, you can contact me here or e-mail me at .

Step 1 – Prepare to buy a home
Before you start looking for a home, there are several things you need to consider. When you start your search, you'll probably want to assemble an outline of features you want, get an idea of what neighborhoods you'd like to live in, and start planning around your budget. Keeping your mortgage payment less than or around 1/3 of your net monthly income is a good rule to adhere to.

Step 2 – Get in touch with a real estate agent in Davie
That's where I come in. I'd like to book a time to meet with you and speak with you regarding your real estate needs and get an idea of your plans for the future. We'll discuss neighborhoods, school districts in the Davie area, the mortgage industry, and any additional economic factors that may affect your purchase today or in the future.

I'll also help you facilitate the loan process. There are some very good mortgage professionals in Davie, and I partner with a lot of them, so you'll be in great hands. They can help you figure out which kind of loan is best for you, as well as help you get approved.

Step 3 – Begin looking
After we meet, I'll begin searching for available houses on the market that are a good fit for you. I'll preview most of the houses and remove the duds, and then we'll book appointments to view the homes at a time that's convenient for you.

As we view homes, I'll identify good features, as well as bad ones. I'll also ask you to point out what things you like and dislike. It's pretty common for buyers to amend their list of must-haves as we tour homes and some items become far more essential than others. If that's the case, I'll look through all the listings one more time and trim it down to the house you've been wishing for.

Step 4 – Get a grasp of the housing market
My knowledge of the Davie market is a fundamental element in your home search. I'm familiar with all the neighborhoods and school districts, and I will alert you to which neighborhoods are "hot" and demand prompt action and others that are "cool" and allow for thoughtful consideration.

When we view houses, I'll be sure to tell you if the seller's list price has room for bargaining or if I believe the house is "priced to sell." Every real estate agent in Davie will tell you they comprehend the market, but keep an eye out, and make sure you ask lots of questions. If it appears they don't know everything, contact me at (954) 598-0700 or e-mail me at , and I'll be more than happy to answer your questions. My understanding of the market will keep you a step above the rest throughout the entire process.

Step 5 – Find the home of your dreams
We'll find your dream home in Davie, and when that happens, I'll precisely develop your real estate purchase offer. The offer will be made to fit your needs and the home. We'll include some contingencies, such as getting financing, completing the home inspection, and a clear title.

Upon turning in your purchase offer, you'll probably need to submit "earnest money." This is a cash deposit given to the seller to secure an offer to purchase the property and is usually put towards the cost of closing. If the offer is accepted, we should close on the home about 30 to 60 days afterward. This allows enough time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate
Most contracts don't close on the initial offer. It's pretty common to receive a counter offer. But don't let this alarm you. We'll figure out whether or not to agree to the counter offer, present our own counter offer, or refuse the seller's offer and move on.

The state of the market will play a role in how aggressively we negotiate the deal. We'll also work within your budget. And when it's all said and done, we'll create a deal that works well for you.

Step 7 – Get a loan
Upon completion of the deal, you'll begin working with your mortgage lender to close the loan. It won't take very long at all if you're already pre-qualified, but you should to keep in close contact with your mortgage lender. And I'll take care of all the property information your lender will need to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
You'll get a Loan Estimate (LE) of your closing costs from your mortgage lender within three days of accepting your application. The estimate is formed from the loan amount. RESPA requirements mandate that it has to contain all closing costs and fall within a tight range of accuracy, and I'll analyze the estimate and let you know if it all looks permissible.

Then we'll close on your home. This will likely happen at a title company or escrow office and will likely be a smooth and pleasant occasion.

Step 9 – Move in
Congratulations! It's time to move into your new house. Enjoy it. And if you need anything, be sure to call me at (954) 598-0700 or e-mail me at .