Tip #1: Find a good realtor

• Ask for market information for the area you are buying into, make notes on each highlight sheet & keep them in a file...you will have it handy to refer to at a later date to confirm value as each property sells or is reduced in price.
• We make sure that you become an expert in your price range and area of homes prior to you buying a property.
  Viewing Tip:   as you view the homes, make a quick reference nickname for each one, you will remember the home better than a street name
  You will be informed to make decisions based on todays market conditions
  Choose a realtor that knows the area well.
  Kathleen grew up here and our volume of sales in the past few years has been very high, we know the market in this area.
• Reflect on current or potential hobbies or lifestyle changes, there may amenities that you may want to be close by.
  

Tip #2:  Financing...get pre-approved even if you already have a mortgage

• Could save $100 per month by locking in the right interest rate and terms
  Call us for our approved list of mortgage brokers that will meet with you at your convenience
  . . It is recommended that you visit or call a lending institution to reserve an interest rate, and, request for a pre-approved mortgage amount.  Ask your lending institution on how much of a down payment they require, payout terms, and policies on the event of transferring a mortgage to another property.
  

Tip #3:  Spend time in the property...

• Call us for no-obligation shopping.  While shopping for a home, take time out to sit on the couch (couch test), at the kitchen table and/or  backyard for a few minutes prior to writing an offer.
  What are your favourite areas in the space you are in today - where do you spend the most time in?

Tip #4:  What will the home cost you in 2 years?

• When considering to purchase a home/property, make a list of things to change, improve or fix.   Compare this to other homes for sale in the neighbourhood.   For example, a foreclosure may look attractive in price to you, but, what will the cost of fixing it up be to you when comparing other homes on the market.  What will the home cost you in two years and compare?

Tip #5:  Purchase with a plan. . .what will your lifestyle be in 3 - 4 years?

• Purchase real estate with three to five years in mind, what is your personal lifestyle goal in the next few years?  Do you want to live near a park, will you require no stairs, are you thinking of a pet, or enlarging your household?  Think ahead.

Tip #6:  Narrow down the top three homes. . .

• The few things that mean the most to you - we want to know about them.  Name five things that you would appreciate in a new home, they may not line up with what your spouse, partner, or children- that's okay.  A clear wish/want/need list.
  

New area of concern: fuel to and from home.  You may want to factor in the amount of transportation costs with several homes.

Tip #7

• Buy a home that has more attractive homes on the street.  It will bring up your value.
  Location, location, location....Good area, if you improved the home/property, you want the surrounding area/neighbourhood to be better that your home to maintain the value/equity.  Try not to buy the most expensive home in the 2 mile radius.

Tip #8  Inspect the property.

• We always recommend a professional building inspections, even if you have a friend in the construction trade.  There is a list of providers below....