ADVICE FOR BUYERS

Here's another article from my upcoming newsletter...enjoy!

Buyers

This is ‘crunch time' for many buyers who have been waiting to buy a home. Many are very eager to see properties & spend time sending listings to area realtors. However, it's important for these consumers to remain focused on the fundamentals. Before going to see properties and/or asking a realtor to check on a property, buyers should ask themselves the following questions:

• Money: Do I have enough for the down payment & closing costs? How much will I need for the property & location I want/need?

• Credit: Has the financing been lined up? Do I have the credit ability to make an offer & close on a deal?

• Flexibility: Am I willing to compromise on some features and/or the property's location? Can I pay more to get what I really want?

Location & home condition are generally predicated on the price. If the buyer's budget is unrealistically low, there will have to be significant compromise(s) on location and/or condition (including size) of the property for a sale to take place. However, if the price is adequate, financing has been lined up & the buyer has realistic expectations, then the probability of success is greatly increased.