There are features, number of beds and baths, garage, granite countertops etc,!
There are interest rates and monthly fees, closing costs, monthly payments, taxes !
Most of these things you can research on the web, and get most of the answers in a relatively easy few minutes.
Figures now vary but are as high as 92% of home buyers go to the internet before actually purchasing a home. Most look on the web for a potential realtor and lender. A prospective home buyer can go to web site like www.RuthMillsTeam.com and find homes in University City, UTC, La Jolla, Downtown San Diego, Rancho Bernardo, or Scripps Ranch, plus community information, School information all on the one site. It is planned as an easy way for shoppers to find what they need to know all in one easy place.
There are other things that will help in your quest for that first home:
Find an experienced Real Estate agent willing to counsel you on your first home purchase that will share with you the entire process before you start.
Find someone that will show you what a residential purchase agreement looks like so you are not trying to sort through a ten page of a small type document when you are ready to make an offer to purchase a property, and when time maybe of the essence. (Don't feel rushed into signing anything you don't fully understand)
Find a lender you can trust. Someone that will ask questions like; what were your earnings for the last two years, can you get your tax returns for the last two years? And someone that will explain the process (what are closing costs?) and give you an explanation in writing as to all costs. This is the toughest part for many first time people, but it will help you to know what actual cost are before you are ready to close and you are emotionally attached to a home. It could save your earnest money deposit. If you don't know a banker or lender you are comfortable with ask your experienced realtor, that person will know at least two or three lenders that their clients have had good experiences with, and that the realtor knows have performed well in past transactions.
Get the name of at least one Bank (primary lender), and a loan broker that can shop rates at different lenders for you. Talk to them both. If you have an accountant that you work with, that may be another good resource.
Primarily look for a Realtor/consultant that will spend the time with you thoroughly explain and answer your questions. Start with that realtor at least two to three months before you are ready to move into your new home. They can help you through the many steps that you can take to be sure you make a good choice. Someone that will answer your questions and keep you informed on the changing market conditions. And finally and very importantly someone you are comfortable with and you like working with.
Your first home will be one you remember for the rest of your life. The Ruth Mills Team would be honored to provide you with our full real estate services for your first home or your luxury home on the La Jolla beachfront.
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