What You Should Know

• Before doing anything else you will want to find out how much you can afford or qualify for. You will want to check your credit to see if this will be an issue. Make sure you clear up any problems with you credit if you know some things have happened in the past. A good credit rating will be rewarded with lower interest rates.
• Next, you will want to talk to a lender to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This is a simple process that takes no time at all. There is no commitment and it will give you an idea of a comfortable monthly mortgage payment. Once pre-approved for a loan, you will know your price range to begin shopping for a home.
• You want what is right for you. Write down a list of all the specifics you want in a home. Then, sort through them based on the things you want and the things you need. Having this list will make the search easier on you.
• Make sure you contact an agent from the Portfolio Real Estate Team to assist you in finding your home. They will look out for your best interest and get you the best price on the best terms.
• Your Portfolio Real Estate agent will then provide you with a list of properties. You can then drive through the neighborhoods to determine a good location for you. Some factors to consider are schools districts, freeway access, commute time, safety, and shopping centers.
• Once you’ve narrowed the search to about four to six houses, your agent will show you the interiors of the properties. At this time, your agent will give you professional advice on the valuation of each home. After viewing all the homes, you may want to check back at different times of the day to see if the neighborhood suits you.
• When you have found the home of your choice, it’s time to get comparables to compare what other homes have sold for in the area. Your agent can assess the value of the home and if everything looks good, you’re ready to write an offer!
• The negotiations and paperwork are all handled by your real estate agent. After the contract has been ratified, you’re ready for the home inspection. When everything has checked out okay, you are off to settlement to sign the papers and get your keys