6 Mistakes Home Buyers Make

Mistake #1.  Not Getting Pre-Qualified for a Mortgage

Before looking for your next home take the time to get pre-qualified by the bank or mortgage broker you choose.  This can save you hours of searching for homes in the wrong price range or worse, purchasing a home and then finding out you don’t qualify for financing.  Pre-qualifying gives you peace of mind, helps narrow your search criteria and most importantly, gives you a negotiating edge by being able to alleviate the sellers concern over financing. The latter is especially important should a competing offer surface. If you need a mortgage specialists we can connect you with the right person!

Mistake #2.  Not Shopping For Mortgage Terms

Rates are negotiable! Banks will sharpen their pencils to get your business especially if you have a good credit rating and bring other business to them e.g. RRSP’s, general account, savings etc. Posted rates should viewed as a starting point. You need to know what the best rate is and this is usually done by get competitive quotes. Also, ask whether the bank will cover appraisal fees, and about buy-out fees, penalties, payment options, portability etc.  The time spent can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the mortgage.

Mistake #3.  Not Getting Professional Inspections

Nobody wants to purchase a home only to find out later there are defects, latent or otherwise.  Ensure you obtain inspections where needed e.g. home inspection, structural engineer, insect, radon etc.  If the inspection identifies deficiencies, you may be able to negotiate the purchase price to cover required repairs or make your satisfaction of the inspection subject to the homeowner remedying the problem. I can advise you on inspections you should consider.

Mistake #4.  Not Using A Professional Real Estate Agent.

I can help you make a purchase with the least amount of problems. I will educate you on the real estate process and industry so you can make informed decisions on your largest investment! I will set you up on a customized search so you don’t miss out on any properties. I will do a full market analysis on potential homes to ensure you do not over pay. I can offer expert advice on what to look for, conditions to include, negotiation strategy, and so much more. I work in your best interests and will help you navigate the process every step of the way!

When selling your home I will keep you up to date with active and sold listings in your area to ensure we stay on top of the competition. I will educate you on the market, sales process, give you honest advice, help you get your home ready to list, give you your odds of selling, will look out for you best interests every step of the way. Using a systematic marketing plan, will sell your home quicker and for more money. My full time marketing and office manager will ensure your listing gets maximum exposure and a smooth transaction that will close on time. I will be in contact weekly to give you an update on the marketing of your home, any activity in your area and answer any questions you may have.

Mistake #5.  Buying First Before Selling

If price is important you should always sell your present home before buying another.  It has the advantage in letting you know exactly how much money you will have available for your next purchase.  Selling your home first allows you to place fewer conditions on your purchase which makes your offer more attractive to a seller.  They often will demand more money to take a “subject to” offer which takes their home off the market.  The other advantage is if you find a terrific house, chances are others will also find it attractive and you stand to lose it if you can’t make an unconditional offer.

Mistake #6. Not Knowing The Full Cost Of Home Buying

Know all the costs associated with your purchase.  Consider the following costs:   legal fees, transfer tax, property taxes, new home landscaping, fencing, appliances, window coverings. If you’d like more information on this request our Buyer Guide.