The Steps to Homeownership

Buying a home in Charleston,SC? Whether you've spent years saving and preparing to buy a home, or are unsure if you can afford it, the questions surrounding a house purchase can feel endless. David Wertan & The Wertan Team can help you through this process and will explain the steps of homeownership along the way. The following is a general summary of the key steps to homeownership but please feel free to contact the Wertan Team for personal assistance:

The Steps to Homeownership:

  1. Hire a real estate professional
    The first step to homeownership is to select a professional to help you find your dream home and fine-tune your financial expectations. Working with a Wertan Team buyer agent is worth consideration because he is legally responsible for representing your interest in the real estate transaction. Before making a decision, however, have a Wertan Team Realtor explain the pros and cons of using a buyer agent versus a sales or dual agent. The Wertan Team can help and guide you through every step to buying a home.
  2. Shop for mortgage rates and terms
    It is a good idea to shop for the best mortgage rates and terms because the difference of even half a percentage point can make a huge difference in how much you pay over the life of a loan. The Wertan Team can help you find the right mortgage company that will work best for your needs and specific situation.
  3. Pre-qualify for a loan
    Your third step should be to get pre-qualified for a loan, which will determine how much you can afford. This allows you to move swiftly when you find the right home, especially when there are other interested buyers.
  4. Define what you want
    The next step is to create a realistic idea of the property you'd like to buy. What features are most important to you? Make two lists: one of the items you can't live without and one of the features you would enjoy. Refine the lists as you house hunt to allow the Wertan Team to show you houses that meet your expectations.
  5. Visit properties
    Now you're ready to visit houses. Ask the Wertan Team to arrange showings of houses that fit your criteria, and to keep track of the properties you've seen.
  6. Know the features that help or hurt resale
    In some areas, a swimming pool actually reduces a home's value and makes it harder to sell. In neighborhoods with two-car, attached garages, a single-car or detached garage may impact the home sale and future value. We can point out features that hurt, and those that help, resale value.
  7. Rate the houses you tour
    After touring each home, write down what you liked and didn't like. Develop a rating system that will help narrow the field down. For example, pick the house you like best on day one and compare all other houses to it. When you find a better one, use the new favorite as the standard.
  8. Make an offer
    Once you've pinpointed your dream house, it's time to get serious about the financial and contractual side of the purchase. We will be a strong advantage for you when making an offer since you and the seller have different goals.
  9. Arrange for a home inspection
    After your offer is accepted, set up a home inspection. It's common to find problems, including leaky roofs, cracked walls, insect infestations and foundation problems. The Wertan Team can help find a reputable inspector, and will negotiate to get you the most for your money once the inspector's report is final. If you negotiate repairs as part of the purchase, ask for a "walk through" before finalizing the paperwork. Ask the Wertan Team about home protection plans, which may save you money in the near future.
  10. Close
    Before your closing date, the Wertan Team will help ensure you've made all the necessary deposits and completed the paperwork - including mortgage, title, and homeowners insurance; to make sure closing runs smoothly.
  11. Prepare for life in your new home
    Before rolling out the welcome mat, consider some moving basics: arranging for an alarm company, turning on electricity, water and gas, cleaning or replacing the carpet, and notifying your local post office of your new address. The best time for renovations is often before you move in.

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