For Buyers and Sellers who are ready to make the next move.
Buyers
1. Know Your Why
You've been dreaming about making a move for a reason - what is it? Decide what you want to change about your current housing situation and use it to motivate you and as a guide for you and your Real Estate Agent to find the perfect place. Your space needs may have changed or you may be ready to get out of the renting trap.
2. How Much Home Can You Afford?
Start your search understanding what your budget is and then you can evaluate what your next home will look like.
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Connect and have a sit-down meeting with a mortgage broker face-to-face, not electronically.
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Evaluate your finances and know your income-to-debt ratio.
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Develop a cost plan: include mortgage, taxes, assessments, and regular living budget.
3. Hire a Pro
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A professional Real Estate Agent will guide your through every step of the process.
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Schedule an in-person meeting to flesh out your plan and learn about the process.
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Don't be afraid to ask questions.
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Find out what exactly a Real Estate Agent can do for you.
Sellers
4. See Through the Smoke and Mirrors
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Engage a Real Estate Agent for who they are: don't interview agents based on a suggested list price.
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Don't price your home before it's ready.
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Hire someone you trust, not whoever says they can get you the best deal.
5. Inspect, Stage, and Apply Lipstick
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All owners of older homes and of single-family homes should have an inspection before you list.
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Homes of any size should be professionally staged.
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Make small, minor cosmetic touch-ups to prepare for the market.
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Use the guidance of a Real Estate Agent when making any improvements.
6. Evaluate, Rinse and Repeat
- Listen to the market and adjust accordingly.
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Don't price based on what you want/need.
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Price according to what the market will bear and what your home is worth.
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Sellers do not set the market, buyers do!
