These tips will help save
you time and make better decisions
Click on the button
below to learn what you as a buyer should know about the buying
sequence.

First-time Buyers
Whether you have spent years saving and preparing to
buy a home, or you still aren't sure if it is something you can even
dream of, the questions surrounding a first-time home purchase can
feel endless.
You can find the answers - and peace of mind - by
working with RE/MAX, the industry leader in experience and
service.
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Prequalify for a loan
Being prequalified for a loan determines how much
house you can afford.
It also allows you to move more swiftly when you find
the right house, especially when you aren't the only interested
buyer.
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Shop for mortgage rates and terms
A difference of even half a percentage point can make
a huge difference in how much you pay over the life of a loan.
For example, the difference in the monthly payment on
a $100,00 mortgage at 8 percent vs. 7.5 percent is about $35 per
month. That's $12,600 over 30 years.
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Using a buyer agent
A buyer agent is legally responsible for representing
the buyer's interest in a real estate transaction. Generally, the
buyer agent is compensated by the seller at the time you purchase a
new home.
There are some limitations to using a buyer agent.
Have a REALTOR® explain the advantages and disadvantages of using a
buyers agent.
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Features that help or hurt
resale value
In some areas, a swimming pool actually detracts from
a home's value and makes the home harder to sell. In neighborhoods
with two-car, attached garages, a single-car or detached garage may
impact the home sale and future value.
Your REALTOR® can point out features that hurt, as
well as those that help, resale value.
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Rate the houses you tour
After touring each home, write down what you liked and
didn't like.
Develop a rating system which will help you narrow the
field down to the house that's the best for you.
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