Your plan...

1.  Find the right representative
Even if you’re not quite ready to buy, as your real estate broker I can be an absolute wealth of information, and can often offer ‘scoops’ on local developments you might not have know about otherwise. 

2.  Find out what your price range is
Online mortgage calculators are a good place to start, but as you get closer to being ready to buy, there is no substitute for a written mortgage pre-approval.  Just speaking to your lender is an extremely worthwhile venture – this is the only way to really get an in-depth picture of your overall financial picture and to discover exactly what you can reasonably afford to spend on a home (and possibly on renovating).

3.  Find out what your local market looks like
The internet can be incredibly valuable in doing preparatory research and we can direct you to valuable resources and immediately start e-mailing you real estate listings that may interest you (or at least give you a better idea of what your needs and wants are).

4.  Find out what your true needs and wants are
Compose a needs/wants list that takes into consideration your local market conditions, your price range, and the advice of your real estate agent.

5.  Find your dream home!
Once you’re ready to act, you may be surprised by how quickly you can make a decision.  Armed with your pre-approval, a little market knowledge, and your needs/wants list we can hit the pavement, and when you see ‘the house’, put in an offer. 

With the LewisSmithTeam behind you, it really can be that easy!

Buying a property...

Your Agent 

Whether you're looking for your first home, investing, relocating, or building, you need up-to-date and reliable information on property values, quality of construction, financing, contracts, and closing procedures. The key to our success is understanding and meeting the needs of our clients.

Lender (Appraiser)

A bank is not just a bank. Having the right backer can be extremely important – it is your money we’re talking about after all! Make sure that your lender and financial representative is someone with whom you feel comfortable.  Your lenders may or may not require an independent appraisal, and typically will make arrangements for the appraisal themselves. (See my Resources Page for References on a Lender)

Home Inspector

No home inspection is 100% guaranteed, but a few hundred dollars to catch a major problem now is certainly better than many thousands to correct that ‘surprise’ down the road. (See my Resources Page for References for Inspectors)

Contractor

Planning some renovations? You’re not the only one! The home renovation industry is booming, and in some markets, booking a contractor must be done months in advance (that’s a long time to go without a kitchen). Don’t let finding the right contractor slip through the cracks – planning ahead will almost certainly make your renovation smoother, and you contractor will appreciate the advance notice. (See my Resources Page for References for a Contractor)

Thinking About Buying Your First Home? 

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