7 EASY STEPS TO BUYING YOUR HOME!

STEP 1 - Find A Realtor You Can Trust:
Get yourself a good Realtor! Buying a home is a complicated process. Mistakes could literally cost you thousands of dollars or the missed opportunity of wining the home of your dreams. The homebuying process begins with finding an experienced Realtor you can trust and represents your best interests. Signing a Buyer Agency Agreement with this realtor makes them your "Buyers Agent" and guarantees, by the laws of the Province, that your needs are professionally represented throughout the entire homebuying process.

STEP 2 - Home Buyer Profile:
Identifying What You Want Most In a Home:
Before you begin "shopping", it is important to first identify and the prioritize the features you want in your new home. Break your list down into "needs' and "desires". Once you have a clear, detailed picture, make sure your agent has the same picture. This communication is critical. Otherwise you'll both be wasting your time looking at homes you're not really interested in.

STEP 3 - Arrange a Mortgage:
Shop for a Mortgage before you shop for a home. Meet with a Mortgage Representative and obtain a Pre-Approval Certificate. Getting a mortgage pre-approval is the smart way to shop for a home. It minimizes the trauma of not knowing whether or not you qualify, it tells sellers that you're a serious prospect, you know in advance the maximum mortgage you can afford, and you can lock in a rate guarantee for up to 90 days. Make sure you get this commitment in writing!

STEP 4 - Viewing Homes:
A good agent brings to the table an in-depth knowledge of the current housing inventory in his or her area, and continually updates that knowledge by touring homes as they come on the market. This is to your advantage. Trying to personally see every available home that might fit your needs would be an overwhelming process. If you are thorough in communicating your needs and what you can realistically afford, then your agent can help you narrow down the list of prospective homes to those that best suit your needs in regards to price, location, style and features. This will save you much time and energy.

STEP 5 - Making an Offer:
When you find your dream home, it is advised that you present a competitive offer immediately. Your Buyer Specialist has contract and negotiation experience. He/She will work with you in developing an offer price, based on recent past sales of similar homes in the same neighbourhood. He/She will ensure you get just what you want for fair market value.

STEP 6 - Conditional Agreement:
Once we have a conditional agreement, traditionally the property will be temporarily off the market until conditions are met. Conditions can range from all final inspections, financing, and other more specific clauses to each property. These final details are handled and inspections are performed to ensure the property is "perfect" for you.

STEP 7 - The Final Step to a Successful Closing:
When conditions are met the property becomes sold FIRM. At this time all documents are forwarded to your notary. The next steps will be handled through your NOTARY who will then prepare documents for closing. It's now time for you to start packing.