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January
13
13
New Year, New Home: How to Prepare for a Home Purchase
Here at Dickerson Nieman, we've just finished ringing in 2015. We're looking forward to spending a new year with our past clients as well as some new ones. The new year is often seen as a good time to buy a home, but many homebuyers get overwhelmed with all the planning and preparation involved. Purchasing a home should be a joyous occasion, so we at Dickerson Nieman want to offer a few tips to help you prepare, financially and otherwise.
Know What You Can Afford
The sheer number of homes for sale can be daunting, especially if you live in one of Illinois' larger neighborhoods. Sit down with your spouse or any other adults who will be living in the house with you, and a financial coach or other expert, to determine your starting budget. Account for how many incomes you have, how many dependents, if any, are in the home, and the type of upkeep you're willing to undertake. Do preliminary math regarding mortgages and determine whether you would benefit more from a broker or a lender. Familiarize yourself with some basic real estate terms, as well, such as "home equity."
Build Rapport
You, your Realtor, and your mortgage broker or lender will be seeing plenty of each other. It's vital to build rapport and trust early on. If you've never had a Realtor before, shop carefully. Talk to others who've used the agency you're considering and read all the reviews available. Once you've chosen an agency, choose the Realtor that's right for you. If you're an introvert, a talkative agent may not be the best fit. If you're looking for an apartment, don't choose an agent whose experience is mostly in selling large homes.
Scope Out the Community
Potential homebuyers often enter a deal based on the house itself, then back out because they realize the surrounding community doesn't fit their needs. This is stressful for buyers, sellers, and Realtors alike, so it's important to familiarize yourself with the community as well as your new home. Share your preferences with your Realtor. Are you looking for an art-driven community or one with plenty of outdoor activities? Will you stay in your current career field or are you changing careers? Dickerson Nieman can help you answer all these questions and find a home in your ideal neighborhood
Dickerson & Nieman Realtors
6277 E. Riverside Blvd
Rockford, IL 61114
Phone: 815-227-5900
Email: Send Email
Rockford area Real Estate Company
