#1
Inspections & Appraisals
Important Tips to Keep in Mind During the Process.
The Process
Step 1: Get Pre-Qualified
If you will be utilizing a loan to purchase real estate, the first step in the process is to get pre-qualified. Our years of experience has enabled us to identify the best in the mortgage business. If you would like to start the pre-approval process, complete this form and we will connect you with our preferred lenders. You may also use our mortgage calculator tool.
Step 2: Research
We have many resources available to assist you in researching your purchase. A good place to start, is by educating yourself about the Austin area. You may click on one of the links below to receive free information about the Austin area:
- Relocation Guide
- Austin Neighborhood Guide
- Schools Guide
- Once you have some general knowledge about the Austin area, you can use our embedded Austin Home Search Tool to search for specific properties. Access to this search tool is free and powerful, allowing search by many parameters including square footage, school district, zip code, and many more. This is a great tool for narrowing down what you are looking for in addition to gaining some insight into current market conditions.
Step 3: Representation
It is possible to purchase real estate without professional Realtor representation. It is also possible to represent oneself as a defendant in a criminal case. Neither is, in our opinion, well advised. Real estate transactions are complex, and the process can be overwhelming without professional Realtor help. For most people, a real estate purchase is the largest single investment they will ever make. Why not let a licensed pro be with you every step of the way to insure you are protected and prevent unnecessary mistakes?
Our experience has taught us that buyers with real estate agents representing them generally are much more satisfied with their purchases. It is important for buyers to know that a Seller’s agent represents the Seller and the Seller only. It is the law. The Seller has an agent representing their interests, shouldn’t you have a Buyer Agent representing your interests? Allow us to represent you and put our years of experience and vast knowledge to work for you to insure the best possible buying experience and investment of your money.
There is a breadth and depth of knowledge that can’t be gained simply by searching the internet. Our agents have access to information not available to consumers as well as years of experience and hundreds of successful transactions to their credit. Add to that, personal knowledge of neighborhoods, builders, inspectors, contractors, and mortgage professionals. Our goal is a smooth and worry free purchase of the best property at the best price.
Step 4: Select & Purchase
After you have been pre-qualified, done some initial research, and retained a buyer’s agent, the fun part begins. Your Realtor will meet with you and begin showing you properties that fit your specific criteria. You can relax and enjoy picking out your new home knowing that your agent is looking out for your best interest. Once you have found the perfect property, your agent will begin working hard to negotiate the best deal and make sure that the purchase process goes smoothly.
Find out how we can help you reach your real estate goals by completing the form .
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Tips For Buying The Perfect Home
Don’t Max Out Your Budget
Just because you’ve been approved for a max amount, doesn't mean you should spend it all on the home's sale price. You will want to set some of that aside for closing costs, taxes and potential home repairs or remodeling.
Get To Know The Area
Make sure the neighborhood works for you and your family - are you close to schools and is shopping conveniently located? Location is important because it’s the one feature that can’t be changed.
Don’t Skip The Inspection
Inspections are worth their weight in gold and will draw attention to problems you may not otherwise see, giving you peace of mind and letting you make more informed decisions about your purchase.
Get Pre-Approved
Getting pre-approved by a lender lets the seller know you are serious and ready to purchase a home and that you are not just window shopping. Check out our list of recommended lenders here.
Make a List of Deal Breakers
Know what you can live with and what you cannot live without and also those things that can be taken care of with a simple remodel. If you need a 4 bedroom home, don't buy one with 2 that requires a massive addition which can break your budget.
Look At The Age Of Appliances & Other Systems
Some of the most expensive features of a home are Appliances, HVAC, Hot Water Heater, Septic/Well, and Roof. You should pay attention to their age and whether they have required service. You may even be able to get the seller to add a home warranty.
Check For HOA Requirements
Most neighborhoods have HOAs that govern what you can and can't do - be sure you know what the rules are for your neighborhood, and the fees associated with having an HOA. They are usually listed as annual fees.
ONE PARTNER FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESATE NEEDS
What Price Range Can I Afford?
Resources For Cedar Park Home Buyers
The journey to homeownership starts by understanding how much you can afford. One major thing to consider is your down payment, if any. Many consumers believe it's impossible to buy a home without at least 20 percent down. But thanks to various government-sponsored programs, many people can now buy a house with as little as 3.5 percent toward a down payment. Veterans of the U.S. military have zero-down programs available.
Finding a knowledgable Mortgage Loan Officer is key to recieving the most up-to-date information on available lending options. Feel free to check out or vetted list of preffered lenders below - or, if you just want to run some quick rough numbers, check out our free mortgage calculator.
Areas We Serve
- Cedar Park
- Austin
- Leander
- Liberty Hill
- Lago Vista
- Jonestown
- Round Rock
- Georgetown
- Pflugerville