Ready to Buy a Home in Richmond, Williamsburg or Hampton Roads?
There are some things you should know
Perhaps one of the greatest accomplishments in life is purchasing a first home. Consumers are more budget conscious than ever and want to make sure they are making smart choices when it comes to their hard earned money. Despite the fact that the current housing market in Virginia is ideal for real estate novices, 1st time buyers are still nervous. Before starting a home search with Erin, it’s important to understand the 8 steps in the buying process. Likewise, first time buyers can learn more about the key players involved in a real estate sale and their designated roles. For the seasoned home buyer, this is probably a good time to brush up on anything that has changed over the years!
Step 1 - Prequalification
Getting pre-qualified for a mortgage is step one of the process and necessary to complete prior to your first house-hunting appointment with the Melton Team. Just like any large purchase that requires a loan, it’s pivotal for a buyer to be financially prepared to act prior to finding a home. This information is equally important for your buyer’s agent to know. That way, your agent knows the price range of homes to show or suggest to you. >>>>> Read More >>>>>
-
Step 2 - Hiring a buyer's agent
Undoubtedly, the wisest decision any buyer can make is to hire an experienced buyer’s agent like Erin Melton to represent them. Just like any major purchase, event or procedure, it’s pivotal to have an experienced advocate working with you. Many purchasers still attempt to do everything on their own. Often times, this boils down to several key misconceptions. Contact The Melton Team today for a free consultation and find out what buyer agency is all about! >>>>> Read More >>>>>
-
Step 3 - Searching for your new home!
Besides being handed the keys, house-hunting for your 1st home is the most exciting part! Sure, looking through homes on https://tidehomes.com or checking out the new listings Erin emails to you each day is an important part of shopping for a home. But, nothing beats the thrill of personally viewing homes! >>>>> Read More >>>>>
-
Step 4 - Submitting an offer
Once a 1st time buyer has viewed and sometime re-viewed potential homes, the true weeding out process begins. Typically, it’s best to narrow down the list to your top three. From there, Erin and her buyers will compose a written offer on the number 1 choice. If not previously done, recently sold comparable will be reviewed to gauge an offer price. >>>>> Read More >>>>>
-
Step 5 - Closing Preparation
Whoo hoo! You got the house! You’re now one step closer to realizing your dreams of home ownership! Time to get back to work so the closing attorney can be handing over those keys in 45 or more days! >>>>> Read More >>>>>
-
Step 6 - Formal loan application
Once Erin has helped the buyer put a home under contract, the buyers will need to make formal loan application with their loan officer. Official loan paperwork will be signed; the loan officer will discuss items regarding locking interest rates, collect the appraisal fee, any required attendance of a home buyer seminar, etc. The lender can also assist you with obtaining your required VA Eligibility Certificate. >>>>> Read More >>>>>
-
Step 7 - Budgeting for pre-closing expenses
Budgeting for the first two weeks immediately following ratification is a crucial step for a buyer. By setting aside between $1,250 and $2,000, the purchaser will be prepared to cover their earnest money deposit, home inspection, appraisal, and any financing reservation fees. >>>>> Read More >>>>>
-
Step 8 - Closing/Settlement
After all the contingencies in the contract are removed/loan requirements are satisfied, it’s time for the lender to send the closing package to the buyer’s attorney/title company. >>>>> Read More >>>>>
