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The process of buying is similar for all home buyers.  From determining just how much home you can afford to closing the contract agreement, the following provides you with an overview of the specific steps that you will encounter during the business of purchasing a new home.

Lenders use established formulas for helping determine what price home you can afford to purchase.

Two formulas used by a variety of lenders are:

           (P.I.T.I.)            
Gross Monthly Income

  = 25-35% or less

P.I.T.I. + All Monthly Debts
Gross Monthly Income

  = 45% or less

For more specific figures and details, ask your RE/MAX Real Estate Professional to help prepare a "pre-qualifying" estimate for you.


You may know exactly what you want in terms of the structure of your new home.  Perhaps you've already chosen a single story ranch style over a two story condominium.  Or, you may be open to several options and you'll "know it when you see it."

Single family homes come in a variety of styles, including but not limited to:

Cape Cod Contemporary
Colonial Modern
Ranch Raised Ranch
Split Level

Multiple family dwellings generally fall into one of the following categories:

Condominium Planned Unit Development
Own-Your-Own Co-op

Selecting a neighborhood that is compatible with your comfort and lifestyle is the next consideration.  A variety of concerns will play into your decision about which neighborhood is right for you and your family.

You may consider:

  • Overall appearance
  • Proximity to schools, churches, shopping and employment
  • Availability of services
  • Recreational and exercise areas and equipment
  • Property taxes
  • Zoning and building regulations

When you've made the decision to purchase a particular property, your RE/MAX Real Estate Professional will assist you in presenting an offer to the seller.  Your offer to buy involves submitting a signed real estate contract that specifically state the terms and conditions upon which you would like to purchase the property.  Your offer will generally be accompanied with a good faith deposit check for the seller.

Depending on the area in which you are located, this offer may be known as an offer to purchase, a contract of purchase, a contract of sale, an earnest money agreement, a deposit receipt or perhaps another variation.

The seller may accept your offer as presented, or employ the option to "counter" your offer with slightly different terms, price, financing or other conditions.

Once both you and the seller have agreed to the terms of purchase, you have both signed the document and you have been notified of the seller's acceptance (usually when you receive an actual copy of the contract), the document becomes a valid sale contract.


Comparing Available Loans

Competition among lenders is vigorous.  Your search for the best loan may include discussion with representatives for mutual savings banks, savings and loans, private lenders, mortgage bankers, finance companies, credit unions and mortgage loan brokers.

It is important to take accurate notes when speaking with each lender's representative in order to effectively compare loan availability, interest rates, terms, loan origination fees, discount fees or points charged, appraisal fees, down payment requirements, income requirements and other specific items that lenders may request.

Some Home Loan Types

  • Conventional Loan
  • VA & FHA Loans
  • Graduated Loan
  • Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM)
  • 100% Owner Financing
  • Owner Carried Second Trust Deed
  • Wrap-Around Loan
  • Land Contract of Sale

At the closing or settlement, you and the seller will each have completed the conditions and met the terms pursuant to your contractual agreement and title to the property will be conveyed to you.

Your RE/MAX Real Estate Professional, escrow company, attorney or other settlement assistant will have helped you through the myriad steps of closing, including handling of the many details such as:

  • Loan approval
  • Inspection of the property
  • Possible repairs
  • Securing free and clear title and title insurance
  • Payment of all current taxes
  • Pay-off of existing seller's loan
  • Payment of insurance
  • Document preparation and recording
  • Ultimate transfer of funds, title, keys and paperwork

Following the closing, you will receive a final settlement statement for your records that clearly illustrates all the fees paid by you to close the contract.


Melody Cusick
Broker/Owner
RE/MAX Partners

Direct Line
(574)457-5326
1-866-239-SOLD
 

WELCOME HOME!

As a RE/MAX real estate professional, I'll take the guesswork out of your real estate transaction by helping you make informed decisions. I have the technical know-how and backing of the world's premier real estate organization.

Changing For Sale to Sold