Choosing to buy a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your life. It’s a complex ordeal that requires a lot of planning and the help of a knowledgeable Real Estate Agent to make the process run smoothly. To help you get ready, here is a general overview of what to expect and prepare.

Get Your Finances in Order

The first thing you’ll need to do is put money aside for a down payment. This amount is roughly about 5% of the purchase price of the home you’re planning to buy. However, there are some grants available that may help you with your down payment. Second, you’ll need to contact a mortgage broker to determine what you can afford. Shopping around for the best rate is highly recommended.

Visualize Your Dream Home

Once you’ve established a price range, it’s time to decide what type of home will best suit your lifestyle. Think about things like access to schools, recreational facilities, what the neighborhood is like, and so on. Why you’re choosing to buy should help answer these questions for you — so think about it carefully. You may want to put this down in writing and create a "need versus wants" list.

Meet With a Real Estate Agent

It’s important to partner with a Real Estate Agent you feel completely comfortable with. A REALTOR® can help you find your dream home, that meets both your needs and your budget. They will set you up with viewing appointments, and also help bring clarity to the complicated process of buying a home. You’ll want to go with an experienced and knowledgeable REALTOR®, like those here at Fonville Realty, who you can be sure will represent your best interests. Click here to contact an agent today.

The Search

Using our property search and consulting with a Fonville Realty Real Estate Agent, you will be able to find homes in your desired area and price range. They’ll update you regarding new listings and schedule appointments for you to see homes that fit your preferences. 

Closing

Your Real Estate Agent can help you place an offer that the seller will either accept, counter, or reject. After you’ve negotiated an offer, you’ll need to conduct a home inspection and deal with any repairs (the cost of which you can also negotiate with the seller). Finalize your mortgage with your lender, and you’re ready to sign off on ownership. This typically takes place in a lawyer’s office, but in some situations, you may be able to sign the paperwork in your new home!

At this point, congratulations are in order! Becoming a new homeowner is one of the most liberating things you’ll ever experience. There are many benefits to home ownership — pride of ownership, the ability to make home improvements, building equity, appreciation — the list goes on.

At Fonville Realty, we do our best to make the homebuying process as smooth as possible. Fill out the Buyer Questionnaire to get started.  Thank you for considering us to help unlock your real estate dreams!