YOU’VE MADE THE RIGHT CONNECTION!     RE/MAX CONNECTION.

Hire a RE/MAX CONNECTION Real Estate Professional

The first step is to select a professional to help you find your dream home and fine-tune your financial expectations. Working with a RE/MAX CONNECTION buyer agent is worth consideration since he or she is legally responsible for representing the buyer's interest in a real estate transaction. Before making a decision, however, have a Realtor explain the pros and cons of using a buyer agent versus a sales or dual agent. Your RE/MAX CONNECTION Associate can guide you through every step to buying a home.

Shop for mortgage rates and terms
A difference of even half a percentage point can make a huge difference in how much you pay over the life of a loan. For example, the difference in the monthly payment on a $100,000 mortgage at 8 percent vs. 7.5 percent is about $35 per month. Over 30 years, that's $12,600.

Prequalify for a loan
Your third step should be to get prequalified, which determines how much you can afford. It allows you to move swiftly when you find the right home, especially when there are other interested buyers. It also indicates to the seller that you are serious and really can afford to buy the property.

Define what you want
The next step is to create a realistic idea of the property you'd like to buy. What features are most important to you? Make two lists: one of the items you can't live without and one of the features you would enjoy. Refine the lists as you house hunt. It is also helpful to search online to see what is currently available on the market. Your real estate professional can then show you houses that meet your expectations.  RE/MAX CONNECTION Agents can go one step further and set you up with automatic e-mail alerts for new homes that meet your search criteria.  Contact a RE/MAX CONNECTION Agent for further details.

Visit properties
Now you're ready to visit houses. Ask your RE/MAX CONNECTION Agent to arrange showings, and keep track of the properties you've seen.

Know the features that help or hurt resale
In some areas, a swimming pool actually detracts from a home's value and makes it harder to sell. In neighborhoods with two-car, attached garages, a single-car or detached garage may impact the home sale and future value. Your RE/MAX CONNECTION Agent can point out features that hurt, and those that help, resale value.

Rate the houses you tour
After touring each home, write down what you liked and didn't like. Develop a rating system that will help narrow the field down. For example, pick the house you like best on day one and compare all other houses to it. When you find a better one, use the new favorite as the standard.

Make an offer
Once you've pinpointed your dream house, it's time to get serious about the financial and contractual side of the purchase. Your RE/MAX CONNECTION Agent will be a strong advantage since you and the seller have different goals.

Arrange for a home inspection
After your offer is accepted, set up a home inspection. It's common to find problems, including leaky roofs, cracked walls, insect infestations and foundation problems. Your RE/MAX CONNECTION Agent can help find a reputable inspector, and will negotiate to get you the most for your money once the inspector's report is final. If you negotiate repairs as part of the purchase, ask for a "walk through" before finalizing the paperwork. Ask your RE/MAX Agent about home protection plans, which may save you money in the near future.

Close
Before your closing date, make sure you've made all necessary deposits and completed the paperwork - including mortgage, title, homeowners insurance and any other paperwork required by local or state governments.

Prepare for life in your new home
Before rolling out the welcome mat, consider some moving basics: arranging for an alarm company, turning on electricity, water and gas, cleaning or replacing the carpet, and notifying your local post office of your new address. The best time for renovations is often before you move in.