Contemplating purchasing a new home in Punta Gorda?

With a little up-front planning, purchasing a home isn't that confusing, but the event can be stressful for a lot of people. I like to supply buyers with an overview of the entire deal so they'll understand exactly what to expect. Below are my nine steps to buying a home. Should you have questions about this information or if you're prepared to get started, you can contact me here or e-mail me at .

Step 1 – Prepare to purchase
Before you commence your home search, there are several things you need to take into account. When you start your search, you'll probably want to assemble a checklist of must-haves, get a feeling for what neighborhoods you want to live in, and begin planning around your budget. Ensuring your mortgage payment is around a third of your monthly income is a good rule of thumb to adhere to.

Step 2 – Connect with a real estate agent in Punta Gorda
This is where Marianne L. Lilly - RE/MAX Harbor Realty comes in. I'd like to schedule a time to get together with you and speak with you regarding your real estate needs and get an idea of your plans for the future. We'll discuss neighborhoods, schools in the Punta Gorda area, the mortgage and housing industries, and any other economic factors that may potentially affect your purchase today or in the future.

I'll also help you facilitate the loan process. Marianne L. Lilly - RE/MAX Harbor Realty partners with some of the finest mortgage professionals in Punta Gorda, so you're in great hands. They can assist you with figuring out which kind of loan is best for you and help you get qualified.

Step 3 – Begin your search
After our first meeting, I'll start searching for available homes on the market that are a good fit for you. I'll preview most of the houses and eliminate the bad ones, and then we'll book appointments to view the houses when it's most convenient for you.

As we view houses, I'll point out good features, as well as negative ones. I'll even ask you to point out what things you like and dislike. It's widely common for buyers to change their wish list as we tour houses and some features become more essential than others. If that's the situation, I'll search all the listings one more time and narrow it down to the home of your dreams.

Step 4 – Comprehend the housing market
My awareness of the Punta Gorda home market is a necessary factor in your house search. I'm mindful of all the schools and neighborhoods, and I'll alert you to some districts are "hot" and call for immediate action and others that are "cool" and allow for careful analysis.

As we view houses, I'll make sure to communicate when the asking price has room for bargaining and also when I think the home is "priced to sell." Any REALTOR will tell you they understand the home market, but take notice, and make sure you ask your agent lots of questions. If things don't add up, contact me at 9417647585 or e-mail me at , and I'd be more than happy to answer any questions you have. My market knowledge will help you stay a step above the rest through the entire process.

Step 5 – Find the home you've been looking for
We'll find the house of your dreams in the Punta Gorda area, and when we do, I'll meticulously develop your real estate purchase offer. The offer will be made to fit your needs and the home. We'll include a lot of contingencies, such as acquiring financing, finishing the inspection, and a clean title.

Upon submitting your offer, you'll need to submit "earnest money." This is a cash deposit submitted to a seller to secure an offer to purchase the property. The amount is typically put towards the closing costs. If the offer is accepted, we should close about 30 to 60 days after. This allows plenty of time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate the deal
A lot of deals don't close on the beginning offer. It's widely common to receive a counter offer. But don't let this discourage you. We'll consider whether or not to accept the counter offer, propose our own counter offer, or refuse the seller's offer and go on.

The state of the market determines how aggressively we negotiate the deal. In addition, we'll work within your budget. And when it's all said and done, we'll compose a contract that is best for you.

Step 7 – Get financing
Once we sign the final sales contract, you'll begin working with your mortgage lender to close the loan. It shouldn't take very long at all if you've been pre-approved, but you need to stay in close contact with your mortgage lender. And I'll deal with all the property information your mortgage lender will need to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
Your lender will send you a Loan Estimate (LE) outlining closing costs within three days of getting your application. You'll get a Loan Estimate (LE) of your closing costs from your mortgage lender within three days of receiving your loan application. This estimate depends on the loan amount. RESPA requirements mandate that it has to involve all closing costs and be within a narrow range of accuracy, and I'll examine the estimate and let you know if it all looks all right.

Then it's time to close on your home. This will most likely happen at a title company or escrow office and will probably be a smooth and relaxing occurrence.

Step 9 – Move in
Congratulations! It's time to move into your new house. Enjoy it. And if you need anything or have any questions, just contact me at 9417647585 or e-mail me at .