Faq
Buying A Home
Buying a first home is an exciting experience, that at times can be confusing. Fortunately, as your REALTOR® I can help you throughout the process. Everything from searching to find the right home to down to negotiating a contract.
First-time home buyer programs
For some people, finding a home can be a challenging process. But when you search with me, home buying is a process made easier. I am here to help you every step of the way. I have a wide range of knowledge, experience, and resources. Things such as a network of professional, experienced lenders as well as other organizations who offer services to help first-time home buyers. These wonderful resources range from resources covering home maintenance to special loans for buyers who meet certain requirements.
Set a price range
Income, debt and credit scores help lenders determine what a potential buyer can afford as a loan. Before starting your search for your new home, the following items need consideration:
- How much you can afford
- How much can be used towards a down payment?
- How much will need to be set aside for closing costs?
- How much will the taxes, home owners insurance, and maintenance costs add to your mortgage each month? Will you still be able to afford the home?
While the mortgage payment is the main expense associated with owning a home it is important to include yearly taxes and maintenance in the calculation of budget. These factors are important and can vary depending on the home’s location, condition, and age.
Why a realtor vs. a real estate agent?
The real estate profession is regulated by state governments, which have different requirements for earning a license. In general, though, the titles you may come across include:
- Real estate agent: Anyone who earns a real estate license can be called a real estate agent, whether that license is as a sales professional, an associate broker or a broker. State requirements vary, but in all states you must take a minimum number of classes and pass a test to earn your license.
- REALTOR®: A real estate agent who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS®, which means that he or she must uphold the standards of the association and its code of ethics.
- Real estate broker: A person who has taken education beyond the agent level as required by state laws and has passed a broker’s license exam. Brokers can work alone or they can hire agents to work for them.
- Real estate salesperson:Another name for a real estate agent.
- Real estate associate broker: Someone who has taken additional education classes and earned a broker’s license but chooses to work under the management of a broker.
