The Process
Funkhouser Real Estate Group understands the importance of the home buying decision. Buying a home can be a difficult process without proper guidance. We have guided buyers to the home of their dreams for over 36 years. This online home buying guide will assist in understanding the complexities of the process.Some important factors to consider when buying a home:
- Know what you want, be realistic and choose the home that is right for you at this point in life.
- Do your homework before you start looking. Decide specifically what features you want in a home and which are most important to you.
- Get your finances in order. Review your credit report and be sure you have enough money to cover your down payment and your closing costs.
- Talk to a lender and get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start looking.
- Select one or two people whose opinions you trust to turn to if you feel you need a second opinion.
- Determine when you can move. When is your lease up? Are you allowed to sublet? How tight is the rental market in your area?
- Think long-term. Are you looking for a starter house with the idea of moving up in a few years or do you hope to stay in this home longer? This decision may dictate what type of home you'll buy as well as the mortgage terms that suit you best.
- Know your financial limits. If you max yourself out to buy the biggest home you can afford, you'll have no money left for maintenance or decoration or to save money for other financial goals.
- Insist on a home inspection and if possible get a warranty from the seller to cover defects within one year.
- Get help. Consider hiring a REALTOR as a Buyer Representative. Unlike a listing agent, whose first duty is to the seller, a Buyer Representative is working only for you. And often, Buyer Representatives are paid out of the seller's commission payment.