TIPS ON FINDING THE RIGHT HOUSE

Once the decision to buy a home has been made, take the time to prepare before you go on your home search. Yes, it is very tempting to rush out and actually look at houses, but to do so without full preparation can be both disheartening and expensive.

Get your financial house in order first! We can't stress this enough--it will save you an enormous amount of time, aggravation and heartache.

Determine what your budget will comfortably allow and stick to it. Don't spend yourself into a "house poor" situation. This holds true for purchasing vacation properties as well.

Get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will not only give you a clear idea of how much a lender will approve for you, it will make your home buying process a great deal easier (and save a lot of time later).

Get familiar with the different housing types available to narrow your search.

Determine your minimum requirements as well as any desired additional features--your needs and wants.

Take note of any items that you don't want in a house.

Determine the desired location (schools, work, recreational activities, etc.)

Familiarize yourself with the mortgage process.

Choose a Realtor that you feel comfortable with and who understands your needs. Be completely aware of the Agency issues. If you look for houses before you have your own Realtor, you may not have the representation you want.

If you don't already have a Realtor screening homes for you, you can check listings and prices throughout Canada at www.mls.ca

Use all resources available in looking for homes: Friends, relatives, a good Real Estate Agent, advertisements.

Don't just buy a home just for your present needs. Make sure to take into account future considerations such as growth in your family needs.

As you are looking, use a scorecard to compare homes. A scorecard is a great tool when it comes time for comparisons (and for remembering which home had which features!)

Get familiar with the inspection process--especially the personal inspection aspect, so that you can weed out unacceptable houses quickly

Maintain your perspective--and your cool! You may find an acceptable house on the first day--or the tenth. The important thing is to get the home that is best for you!

Call Steve today and get him working for you!

BUS: (250) 832-9997 Toll Free : 1-877-644-9997

E-MAIL: slewis@sunwave.net

Salmon Arm Real Estate

FAX: (250) 832-9935 RES: (250) 832-8291