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BENCHMARK REALTY LLC - Property Listings
BUYER’S GUIDE
Buying a home is one of life's most exciting milestones. To make sure you're ready for the journey, it's important to know what to expect. This step-by-step first-time buyer's guide will ease the stress and help you enjoy the process to the fullest.
1. DO YOUR RESEARCH
Got a clear idea of where you want to buy? Thinking condo, townhome, or single-family house? Know what features you like and dislike? If you’re unsure, it’s time to dive into research. As you browse homes, keep an eye on price changes—these little nuggets of info can reveal housing trends and help you make a smarter offer when the time comes.
2. SET YOUR
BUDGET
I said set your budget, not just accept whatever the mortgage company offers! Lenders often approve more than you actually want to spend, so figure out your comfortable monthly payment first. Don’t forget to budget for extras like garbage, water, and HOA fees—because moving from an apartment or shared space can bring surprises that’ll make your wallet weep!
3. SECURE FUNDING
Just because you think you can handle a certain monthly payment doesn’t mean the mortgage company will agree. They might approve you for more than you want—or less, or even deny you outright. Factors like job history, credit score, or past financial hiccups can all play a role. Before you fall in love with a home, chat with a mortgage pro to find out what you can really qualify for. It’ll also help when making an offer, since some sellers won’t even consider offers from non-prequalified buyers.
4. CHOOSE YOUR AGENT
Sure, you can go solo on finding and making an offer on a home, but why would you want to? Let me take the weight off your shoulders! I’ll help you discover potential homes, arrange those all-important showings, and handle the offer process. Plus, with my market know-how, I might just save you from a "house of horrors" and point you to hidden gems you’d otherwise miss. Let’s make home-buying less of a headache and more of an adventure!
5. HOUSE HUNT
This should be the most fun you’ll have during the whole process (unless you count the actual move-in dance party!). I’ll line up showings for homes that fit your budget and taste. While you’re touring, go wild—flip those light switches, test doors like you’re auditioning for “Extreme Home Makeover,” and make sure those faucets run smoothly. And don’t stop at the house—explore the neighborhood like it’s your new playground. Check out the traffic, parking situation, and how close you are to the nearest pizza place. It’s all part of the adventure!
6. SUBMIT AN OFFER
When you’ve found "the one," team up with your agent to craft a fair offer based on local home prices. Depending on the market, your offer might be below, at, or above the asking price. If you get a counteroffer, I’ll be your negotiation sidekick to seal the deal. This is the first major negotiation hurdle—think of it as your home-buying obstacle course. Once we agree, the house goes into escrow—real estate lingo for "we're one step closer to your new home!"
7. INSPECTIONS
Usually, your offer will be contingent on a home inspection to ensure you’re not buying a money pit. I’ll help set this up and schedule it soon after your offer. If the inspection shows no major issues, we’re on to the next step. If it does, you can renegotiate based on needed repairs or decide to walk away. This is the second major negotiation hurdle and a crucial step—think of it as a full health check-up for your future home!
8. APPRAISAL
Your lender will get the home appraised to confirm its value and make sure everyone’s paying a fair price. Think of it as the house’s way of getting a second opinion—just to be sure it’s worth every penny. Consider this the third and final negotiation hurdle in the process—like the last boss level before you reach homeownership glory!
9. CLOSING
Congratulations—you’ve reached the final step! No one exactly thrills at the thought of all the paperwork involved in buying a home, but it’s a must-do step. Thankfully, your lender and title company will handle the heavy lifting. Once the paperwork is wrapped up, you'll officially be the proud, legal owner of your new home. Time to celebrate and start packing for the big move!
