Congratulations! You have decided to purchase a home, or are thinking about buying one. With this choice, you’re joining the ranks of hundreds of families who realize that home ownership offers a number of benefits, including building equity, saving for the future, and creating an environment for your family. When you own your home, your hard-earned dollars contribute to your mortgage, not a landlord’s. The equity you earn is yours. Over time, your home will increase in value.
In this Home Buyer’s Guide, you will find the information you need to make a wise buying decision. We will take you through the planning process step-by-step, to help you determine which home is right for you. You will find a host of informative articles on mortgages, viewing homes, the offer, closing details and moving.
Pre-shopping
Before you start shopping for your home, why not give some thought to your lifestyle, the features you need and want, affordability, and the neighborhoods you prefer.
Arranging a mortgage
Most people require a mortgage to purchase a home. This section explains the elements of a mortgage including type, terms, and how to qualify for one. In addition, choosing the right mortgage for your needs can help you retire this financial obligation sooner.
Viewing Homes
When you separate emotion from facts, and the condition of the house, you will be in a better position to purchase a home that meets both your needs, and your budget. You can also avoid any costly errors that could lead to future problems.
The Offer
Prior to showing your home, and after a thorough evaluation with a Real Estate Professional, you should have the following: a realistic idea of the price, how low you will settle, what conditions you will accept; and what terms would be agreeable. With this information, you are prepared. When an offer is presented, you will be able to compare it to your initial guidelines. Your Real Estate Professional will evaluate these offers and, hopefully, arrive at one that comes closest to your objectives.
Closing
Buying a home is a complicated process involving a buyer and seller, and lawyers for each of these parties. Closing day is the day when all the parts of buying and selling a home come together. Each party’s lawyer will have successfully completed the details required to ensure all legal aspects are covered. On this day, you will take possession of the home, get the keys and perhaps even move in. It is also a busy time for the seller, as they will likely be in the midst of moving. However, before that day arrives, there are closing details to complete to ensure the smooth transfer of the property.
The Move
For most of us, moving ranks among our least preferable activities. There are many other things we would rather be doing. However, the work and effort involved in moving all your belongings to your new home is well worth the effort. In fact, with some advance planning, you can make your move more manageable.
It is never too early to start planning for a move. The more time you spend organizing your belongings, the less stress and load you will carry on that day, and for months to come. Moreover, as the weeks roll by, and you get closer to moving day, the following checklist will go a long way to reliving some of your anxiety.
Article and information courtesy of: Justin Havre & Associates are a dedicated team of professionals with access to all of Calgary’s real estate opportunities. Be assured of a quality, comprehensive experience with these award winning realtors working for you.
