Choosing your real estate professional is, perhaps, the most important decision you will make when buying property. The goal for this site is to give you a glimpse of what I have to offer while allowing key market research right from here!

However, no matter whom you choose, these simple tips will help you find and purchase the home or property of your dreams more quickly and efficiently. If you're a first-time buyer you can find more information here.

Before you shop:

Have a home to sell first?  No problem, simply consult with your chosen agent who will be happy to list your property for sale, referenced as a contingency of your new property's purchase. Find out your existing home's fair market value, with no obligations, to project a reasonable equity position for new purchase decisions.

Be a smart consumer.  Learn the financing basics. Know how to shop for a home loan that's right for you.

Get pre-approved.  This takes very little time and lets you know the price range that fits your lifestyle.

Know what you want. The last thing you need is to close a deal and realize you bought a house you don't want. Ask yourself what you're looking for in a home, before you shop. Think about size, commute time and necessary repairs.

Keep your debt load to a minimum.  Don't make major purchases or incur any additional debt until after your purchase. Pay down credit cards and don't apply for new ones. Remember, financial institutions evaluate your financial situation on your gross monthly income. Your total monthly housing costs should not exceed maximum percentages of your gross monthly income- as verified through above links. 

Search entire Tri-Cities Multiple Listing Service as well as area FORECLOSURES (for FREE)-- See bottom of home page.

Be prepared to view new properties quickly.   Sometimes homes sell quickly, so be ready to make fast decisions. Be accessible to change the terms.  

Have instant access to your agent.   Instant communication can mean the difference in purchasing the property of your choice.

Before you buy:

Submit a strong competitive offer.
 
Include a reasonable earnest money deposit.   Sometimes offers are accepted based on the amount or time of the deposit......rely on your realtor's advice in making your offer as attractive as possible. 

Try to minimize the number of contingencies.   Fewer contingencies mean a stronger offer. However, proper paperwork can incorporate necessary contingencies, such as a home sale, inspections, feasibilities, etc. Again, your realtor's knowledge and experience in coordinating all conditions and deadlines can pave the way for a smooth transaction.

Hire an inspector.   A professional home inspector  will make sure the house of your choice is in satisfactory condition. When written in as a contingency of your purchase, your home inspection reveals real or potential problems/concerns, which, if not corrected by the seller, allows you to cancel the purchase with refunded earnest money.

Check zoning regulations and covenants.   Good residential neighborhoods will be zoned to keep out commercial and industrial users. Read any restrictive covenants and make sure they fit your lifestyle.

Request an updated property survey.  Be sure it clearly marks boundaries. Check for problems.

Make sure you know what stays or goes.
Your contract should be very specific about which items (appliances, etc) are included in the sale.

Get agreements in writing.   Make certain verbal agreements are written into the final contract to avoid any stressful and expensive issues later.