When you want to buy a home, having help from experienced professionals can make the entire experience smoother. As you move through shopping, making an offer, and closing on a home, there are three experts whose assistance is essential. Here are the three people you’ll want to help you buy your home.
- Real Estate Agent
Real estate agents have access to all of the property for sale Lakewood WA in your area, and they also have access to historical knowledge of home values. Agents can help you determine a fair price for any home. Plus, they can work with you to figure out exactly what you’re looking for in a home and what areas of town would be a good fit.
- Mortgage Lender
Before you even begin looking for homes, get pre-approved for a mortgage. Not only will this give you an idea of your budget, but it will make you a more solid prospect when you present purchase offers to sellers. Real estate agents often have lenders they work with frequently, so you may be able to get a recommendation from your agent. Asking friends and family who have recently bought homes is another great way to make a connection.
- Home Inspector
Hire a qualified home inspector to do a thorough inspection before you close on your home. Typically, the right to do an inspection is included in a purchase agreement. Your inspector should provide you with a detailed report, including descriptions and photos, of all of the main systems in the house. You’ll want to know the condition of everything; how much life expectancy is left in items like appliances, the furnace, and the water heater; and what surprises, if any, lurk in places you couldn’t see when you walked through the home. This report can help you renegotiate the selling price or cancel the sales agreement if necessary.
Be sure to take advantage of expert help through the home-buying process. Using the knowledge others have gained over the years will help you move easily through the experience.