For most people, buying a home is one of the biggest investments they’ll ever make. If you’re planning to purchase a home, your budget likely includes the down payment and monthly mortgage payments—yet many buyers, particularly first-time homeowners, find their budgets stretched by unexpected costs. In fact, according to a survey by ConsumerAffairs, 44% of recent home buyers said they had already spent more than they’d planned, with the average over-budget amount exceeding $10,000.
While record-breaking home prices over the past several months have contributed to this trend, new homeowners often find themselves surprised by unexpected costs, such as the following:
Property taxes. Currently, the average property tax rate across the U.S. is 1.1% of a home’s assessed value, but this amount can vary greatly based on location and average home prices.
Closing costs. The upfront costs of buying a home include more than just the down payment—at closing, you can expect to pay costs ranging from 2-5% of the home’s value. These may include title insurance, mortgage origination fees, surveys, and more depending on your market and lender.
Utilities. For many people moving from an apartment or rented house to a home of their own, the cost of all the utilities they need can be surprising. From the basics like water and electricity to items that you may or may not need depending on your preferences and where you live (such as cable, sewer, and trash collection), utility bills can add hundreds of dollars a month to your home ownership costs.
Insurance. In order to take out a mortgage, you’ll need to provide your lender with proof of homeowners insurance, which will cover certain damage to your home and the items within it. This necessary coverage will cost anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars per year.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Summertime is most people’s favorite vacation period. Sometimes whole neighborhoods become deserted with everyone on a trip somewhere. Buying a home during summer can turn out to be a better option for you. The reason is the factors that are specific to this time of the year. Keep the following in mind to benefit from all the advantages of summer home shopping.
Summer offers a good time to check out neighborhoods
Your new home is not the only thing you should consider when you intend to relocate. It is also important to check out the neighborhood. Buying a home during summer is particularly suitable for that since most of your potential neighbors will be on vacation. It is a little funny when a new guy walks around the area staring at people’s yards. You don’t want the people living there to think your intentions are malicious. Use these holiday months to roam around your future neighborhood more freely and maybe even take some pictures. The schools are on break as well. You can go check that out without being mistaken for a suspicious stranger.
Also, there is a good chance that the people who have put their homes on the market are also on vacation. Without the owner around, you can take the opportunity to make a more detailed inspection of the house or a condo you are viewing. As you know, there are certain things home sellers are required to disclose by law, but the rest you can make sure you don’t miss by taking a good look at it. And finally, there’s a good chance the real estate agent will tell you more about the property when the owners are absent.
Buying a home during summer allows you to check out the neighborhood in peace.
In summer, days are longer, so there is more time to see the property
Summer is a time when days are longer. It has been scientifically proven that people’s natural energy levels are directly related to the amount of sunshine they get. With that in mind, in summer, it is more likely that the sellers will find it acceptable to have people over on their property until later in the day – simply because it is still daylight. That gives you more time as a buyer when the property is available for you to see.
This may seem like an irrelevant thing to you. Yet, for those working long hours or having a tight schedule, purchasing a home in summer may be more realistic than when the viewing period is shorter. One of the experts from a moving company Beltway Movers, says that many of the people he worked with find it important that every aspect of buying a home is adjusted to their long working hours. Moving into a new home as well as viewing it is much better to do in daylight when the visibility is higher. With that in mind, these particular clients find that buying a home during summer is better suited for their tight schedules.
Take advantage of the fact that there is less competition
As previously mentioned, summer is a time when most people choose to travel somewhere. The absence of potential buyers leaves agents with more time to devote to those that are present. This means if you are viewing a condo or a house, your agent will be able to answer more of your questions. You can even take this chance to discuss the situation on the market and get very useful advice and information. It is vital that you ask all that is of interest to you during the home viewing, so there are no nasty surprises later.
Another crucial thing is that with fewer people around, there will be fewer offers made. You will have a higher chance of getting the home of your dreams for a reasonable price because of that. If you notice there aren’t many people interested in that particular property, don’t wait too long with your offer. It may just be temporary until the vacations are over. Generally, smaller demand generates lower prices, and fewer offers create higher chances that yours will be the most favorable.
Relocating in summer can be done more easily
Moving is never an easy task, especially if your new hometown is on the other side of Virginia. It is always a good idea to hire professionals who will give a helping hand and get you through this complex process smoothly during any season. Nevertheless, there are several reasons why making a big move in the summer is a better idea than at any other time of the year.
The school year is over. Moving when your kids have lots of school activities and disrupting their routines is a nightmare for any parent. Summer offers a solution for that in the form of the end of a school year. Your kids can even help with the move too. Also, enrolling in a new school is better at the beginning of a school year than in the middle. Being a new kid in class is easier than being that new kid who also has to catch up with the classes as well.
The weather is favorable for transportation. Driving a truck full of stuff is easier to do on dry roads. Naturally, they are more common in summer than in any other season. For example, wet and icy roads are often present in fall and winter. Those conditions are something truck drivers dread.
The yard sale is more efficient in summer. Your curb appeal is outstanding in summer. If you intend to organize a yard sale, summer might generate more profit for you.
Consider these reasons seriously. They can make a huge difference between a stress-free relocation and a tedious and nerve-wracking endeavor.
Summer as a holiday season is a good time to move as well
If you are buying a home that is not in your hometown, turn it into a fun trip
Speaking of relocation, aren’t you curious about the attractions and fun activities your new hometown has to offer? As you know, summer has a way of turning even the dullest of places into exploration-worthy areas. Typically, there are more interesting outdoorsy things to do in summer than in any other season. We advise turning this rather business-like activity of viewing potential homes into a trip for the whole family. Whether it is going to be a short break in your future hometown or a more extended staycation of a sort, you have the opportunity to approach buying a home during summer as a holiday with one obligation only and lots of enjoyment.
Those that are viewing a home outside the city they currently live in can turn the experience into a fun family trip.
Final thoughts
Buying a home during summer can be a delight. Use all that long sunny days have to offer in Orange County, for example. As we have seen, shopping for a home in this mainly vacation-oriented season has many advantages. You can even merge buying a home with your own fun family traveling if your new hometown is on the other side of the country. Whatever you choose to do, we are sure this is a part of the year when you will find what you are looking for.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Even if you locate a condo that precisely suits your budget and meets your requirements, there is sometimes a lingering sense of insecurity that will make you wonder if that condo is really “the one”. Believe it or not, you’re not alone as this is quite common and with good cause. After all, you don’t want to make a costly error while purchasing a condo, especially if you’re a first-time homebuyer. It’s not only your biggest financial investment, but you’ll be living in it for years. That’s why it’s important to recognize signs you’ve found your perfect condo. Further in this post, you’ll find out what you should pay attention to when shopping for your new condo.
Clear signs that say you’ve found the perfect condo
As you undoubtedly know, finding “the one” is difficult, especially when you’re in the process of buying a home. Studio or one-bedroom apartment? Modern finishes or natural light? Hardwood or tile floors?
Your real estate agent will present you with many great options, and you’ll avoid feeling overwhelmed if you know what signs to pay attention to.
Finding the condo of your dreams might be difficult with so many options available. Fortunately, there are a few telltale signals that you’ve located your perfect condo. Continue reading, and you might realize that you have already found “the one.”
It gives out a homey feel
The first thing to pay attention to when looking for a condo is the way it makes you feel. You want to find a place you feel comfortable and homey, especially if you’re moving to a new hometown and didn’t get a chance to familiarize yourself with the place. Spending time in a new condo that already feels like home will make this transition easier for you.
The proper condo will entice you in and make you feel at ease. It will instantly make you want to relax in the living room or have a conversation with your real estate agent in the dining room. Going into the bathroom is not at all weird. Indeed, you may have caught yourself opening cabinets or admiring the room. The condo simply feels comfortable and homey. Could this be the right one?
It fits your budget perfectly
No condo is right for you unless it perfectly fits your budget. So when considering which condos to take a look at in person, start by reviewing your budget and knowing how much you can afford. It doesn’t make sense to invest in an expensive home with all the latest amenities if you can’t afford it. It simply doesn’t fit your lifestyle.
To avoid disappointments, scratch off any alternatives on your list that are way out of your price range, as none of those will be the right condo for you.
Don’t be disheartened if you happen to find a gorgeous place that’s just over your budget that you simply adore. You still have a few choices. For starters, see if you can work out a better price. Or decide to decorate on a budget and invest in cheaper furniture. You might be able to cozy up the place easily while staying within your budget.
The condo sets the bar for all other condos
When you find the perfect condo, you’ll realize that you keep returning to it throughout your search. You go to one open home and admire the living room and kitchen design, but you notice that the layout isn’t as excellent as the one you saw earlier. That condo set “the standard.”
It’s in a perfect location
If you’ve found a condo in a fantastic location that perfectly suits your lifestyle, it could be that you’ve found “the one.” If you’re a homebody who enjoys peace and quiet, for example, you’ll probably prefer to look for apartments in more suburban locations.
On the other hand, if you prefer to be in the thick of things, a thriving downtown neighborhood can be right up your alley. For the added convenience of having restaurants and entertainment within walking distance, you might be ready to compromise on things like assigned parking or square footage. So if you feel like you’ve found an ideal location, perhaps you‘ll overlook minor flaws and realize that you’ve found your perfect condo.
Your perfect condo is just the right size
The most amazing condos aren’t always what you need right now in your life and don’t always fit your lifestyle. It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of discovering the perfect apartment in the nicest neighborhood, but don’t forget about the space.
On the other hand, if you found a condo that’s just the right size and with a great layout, it might be worth sacrificing and moving to a slightly less desirable location. It can be tough to find a condo that ticks all of your boxes. So if you’ve found a place with the right size and within your budget, don’t think twice about it.
It simply feels right
Sometimes, you simply know that something is right for you. If a condo appeals to you right away, it’s an indication that it might be the right one for you. Try to imagine yourself living your daily life in that place. Is everything going to work out, or will you have to make some adjustments to your daily routine?
When you find the right condo, your gut will make sure to send you a sign.
If just the thought of living there makes you happy and your life seems easier, it’s probably the one. However, don’t let love blind you to the price tag. Remember, it’s critical to ensure that your new home fits into your budget in the long run.
Pay attention to these signs, and you’ll know you’ve found your perfect condo!
And that’s it—it all comes down to listening to your gut and paying attention to those subtle signs. Of course, the safest way to go is to get in touch with an experienced Realtor® who’ll guide you on your real estate journey and make sure you’ve found your perfect condo.
Meta description:
Buying property is a significant investment, and you want to be sure you have found the right one. Read on for signs you’ve found your perfect condo.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
In a competitive market, you want to make sure you’re doing everything right when it’s time to buy a new home.
Stability with your employment and finances is super important, so don’t make any sudden changes.
Don’t skip out on working with a buyer’s agent—an experienced real estate agent is an invaluable partner.
Buying a home is an exciting and sometimes nerve-wracking experience. In addition to finding the right place, you also have to find the right mortgage, and with low inventory in many markets and rising home prices nationwide, securing your dream home can be a challenge if you don’t make the right decisions when preparing to buy. Here are five of the most common mistakes you should avoid when buying a home.
1. Don’t open or close credit accounts
Because mortgage lenders check your credit multiple times throughout the homebuying process, it is crucial that you do not open any new lines of credit or close any existing lines of credit. Doing so can lower your credit score and increase your debt-to-income ratio, both of which are reasons for a lender to deny approval.
It is always a good idea to pay off an existing line of credit, but closing the account removes that credit history from your report. Credit reporting bureaus use your length of available credit to generate your score, so leave your account open and active, but don’t use it until after closing.
2. Don’t switch jobs
The most important thing that mortgage lenders look at when considering pre-approval is an applicant’s employment stability. Typically, they want to see two consecutive years of uninterrupted income for approval. Any changes to employment status can signal that the loan may not be repaid—it can be a significant red flag that can derail or delay your closing. Make sure to tell your lender right away if a career change is unavoidable or if you do not have two consecutive years of verifiable income.
3. Don’t shop for homes you can’t afford
Typically, most prospective homeowners can afford a mortgage between two and two-and-a-half times their gross annual income. An easy way to think of this is not exceeding more than 30% of your income.So, if a lender tells you that you can borrow a lot more than that, you should probably find a new lender because your monthly payments may not be manageable if you max out your loan. Use a mortgage calculator before you visit with a lender to help you estimate monthly payments.
Also, consider that homeownership comes with additional expenses you will need to save for, like maintenance, repairs, insurance, property taxes, homeowner’s association fees (if applicable), and other unforeseen costs. The last thing you want to do is stretch your monthly budget to cover your mortgage, which will eliminate your liquid cash flow for your other financial obligations, like car payments, student loans, and your savings goals.
4. Don’t skip the inspection
Waiving a home inspection can be a costly mistake, and unless you have extra cash to fix up a home, you are gambling with the cost of unforeseen repairs. Home inspections find potential critical issues with the structure and integrity of a house, such as cracked pipes and water damage. They are built into the home buying process to protect the buyer’s investment.
Paid by the buyer and non-refundable, the home inspection fee is a small price to pay when considering today’s costs to replace a furnace, water heater, roof or other costly items.
Without an inspection, you will have no recourse if a significant issue surfaces after you close on your home. So when you make an offer on a home, include a home inspection contingency that gives you a penalty-free exit from the deal if a major issue is unresolvable before closing.
5. Don’t forget to hire an agent!
Searching for a home on your own is both time-consuming and complicated. That’s why the help of a professional, experienced real estate agent who knows how to navigate the market will guide you to make the best investment of your money.
Also, if you go to showings without a real estate agent, a seller’s agent may offer to represent you. This can be risky because that agent’s goal is to get as much money for their client as possible from you, the buyer. In addition to helping you negotiate, a qualified real estate agent will have access to home listings before the general public becomes aware of them.
Best of all, the cost of enlisting an agent won’t come directly out of your pocket. Instead, the seller typically pays it to the seller’s agent, who splits the commission with the buyer’s agent!
Do Find Your Real Estate Team Today!
When it comes to buying a home, there’s a million little details to keep track of. Work with an experienced real estate agent to help you navigate the entire process, avoid pitfalls, and get you the home you’ve been dreaming of. Contact us today to get started!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
When you’re making an investment of any sort, there’s one
thing more important than just securing all the funds you need. You also need
to do enough research to make sure you’re going to end up making a truly
informed decision. And in this regard, real estate investments are no
different. Especially if you’re a buyer in a seller’s market – you need to have
all the right data and info. And that’s precisely what we’re going to talk
about here!
Working With A Proper Realtor
If you’re buying in a seller’s market, before you actually
present an offer to your seller of choice; you want to have all the right
information. And in order to do that, you need to have the right representation
while you’re buying a property. If you’re facing a steep
seller’s market, a good real estate agent will make all the difference in the
world. For example, they’ll be able to ask all the right questions when talking
to the seller’s agent and figure out all of the activity on the home that you
need to know about.
Doing Research In A Timely Manner
When you’re buying a home and moving there, you need to do everything you can in regards to making your relocation less expensive than it needs to be. And that means doing all the prerequisite research; not just on the specific property, but on the market in general. Once you’ve gotten the sense of the kind of home you want, or even the preferred neighborhoods that you have in mind; you should start learning all you can about them. This is another thing your real estate agent will be good at, so finding one early on is important.
An informed decision is the only good one!
Separating Needs And Wants
One of the realities of buyers in a seller’s market is pure
and simple – you’ll need to get your priorities in order. It doesn’t matter
whether you’re looking for a vacation home or a house you’ll
primarily be living in. You still need to forego a couple of your less urgent
wants and focus on what you truly require. So, a few compromises on the home’s
condition, the local amenities, or the location will simply have to happen in a
seller’s market; coming to terms with this reality is good for you.
Stay Within Budget
A seller’s market is, as the name suggests – one where, to
paraphrase the old adage, buyers can’t be choosers. With this in mind, you need
to say goodbye to the idea of presenting low-ball offers to your sellers. Find
a price range you’re completely comfortable with, and make sure you stay within
it. If you’re hoping that the seller might drop their listed price down to
something more acceptable for you; that isn’t one of the smart things to do in a demand-heavy market
where sellers have their pick.
Don’t let your chase for a dream home make you unrealistic!
Scheduling Flexibility
Before you can find a good moving company like bluebellmovingandstorage.com
to help you out with your relocation to a new home; you will need to do
everything in your power to make sure you can nab the right property. And that
means one thing – flexibility! You need to learn of the seller’s time schedule
and adjust yourself accordingly.
Usually, it’s useful to learn why the seller in question is
moving away; that’ll be a great hint in terms of your closing date. If they’re
looking to leave in a hurry, they may want someone who can deal with a quick
closing date. On the other hand, they may require extra time to relocate. If
there are other buyers you’re competing with (and in a seller’s market, there
usually are), this will net you bonus points with the seller. Never underestimate
goodwill as a factor!
More Cash Upfront
This isn’t something you can always influence, depending on your budget and personal finances. But generally speaking, a seller’s market reasonably favors people who can offer a larger amount of earnest money. This will, logically, pique the seller’s interest in negotiating with you. When sellers have favorable market conditions and receive lots of offers, a big deposit could be what makes the crucial difference.
Having more cash to offer will differentiate you from the rest of the buyers!
Get Personal
Depending on the seller in question, including some humanity
and emotion into the equation could also be the deciding factor. For example,
you could write up a letter that you’ll include with the purchase offer, in
order for the seller to know your personal reasons for buying the home. Try to
become friendly with them through the letter as well – for instance,
complimenting their home decor or well-kept outdoors.
Remember – many of the sellers still like the home that
they’re selling. That’s why they’d also like for the home to go to someone
who’s going to love it just as much!
Look For Potential
As we’ve mentioned above, a seller’s market does demand a certain
level of compromise from a buyer. That’s why you shouldn’t take any home at
face value; try to find the promise and potential within a good property.
Perhaps you’ll be able to change a currently unfavorable layout later on?
Don’t Overdo Due Diligence
So far, we’ve talked quite a lot about the importance of making an informed decision. However, you should bear the other side of the coin in mind as well. Remember – real estate markets are a dynamic place. In certain situations, sellers will use the “other people are making offers” ploy as a tactic to get you to panic and agree to a less favorable price. Bear in mind though, that in a seller’s market, this is sometimes truly the case. You need to strike a careful balance between due diligence and overthinking, or the perfect home may slip away!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
If you ask a homeowner what it was like to buy their first home, they’ll probably mention a few things they’d change if they could do it all again. While it’s impossible to know everything about the home-buying process beforehand, you can still prepare yourself for what lies ahead—and figure out how to avoid some potential pitfalls. Not sure where to begin? Here are some key pointers to keep in mind before starting your search.
You’re Buying More Than a House
We all know the phrase “love at first sight,” and it can certainly apply to homes, too! Even if you step inside a home and instantly fall in love, it’s crucial to step back and consider the whole picture before making a purchase.
When you buy your first property, you’re investing in more than just four walls. It’s worth paying attention to things like a home’s location, neighborhood, and physical condition, too. Even if you find that open concept kitchen you’ve been dreaming of, it might not be the right fit if it’s in the wrong community or if the rest of the house requires out-of-budget repairs. It’s best to stay realistic and listen to your agent’s (and home inspector’s) advice. Remember, this is likely one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, so spend your money wisely!
Down Payments Are Different for Everyone
So many would-be buyers are scared of homeownership for one reason: the down payment. Traditionally, you’d put down around 20% on a home and spend anywhere from 10 to 30 years paying your lender back. However, you actually have more flexibility than you might expect.
Depending on your credit history, location, and occupation, you could be eligible for loans that require as little as 0% down. However, making a larger down payment means you’ll pay less interest to your lender in the long run. Be sure to shop around for the right fit and reach out to your agent with any questions—they’re always available to help you out.
Prepare for Extra Expenses
Homeownership often comes with unexpected expenses, especially right after you move in. When you’re setting a budget for your big purchase, consider adding some wiggle room to allow for any additional and long term costs. You don’t want to realize that you can’t afford your home after you’ve purchased it!
Wondering what kinds of expenses can come up? Inspections, homeowner’s insurance, prepaid taxes and other various closing costs, HOA dues, and repairs are just a few possibilities. You’ll pay for some of these before or at the closing, but certain recurring costs will have to be factored into your monthly budget.
Get Pre-Approved Before You Start Searching
Once you’ve made the decision to buy, it’s tempting to start looking at listings right away. However, you might want to press pause and complete an essential step before you start scheduling showings. Getting pre-approved for your loan will show sellers and agents that you’re serious about buying—and it can tell you exactly how much you can afford to spend.
Ready to start the pre-approval process? First, you’ll want to get your finances in order and shop around for the right lender. Be sure to have all of your important documents on hand, such as your W-2 tax form, paystubs, and social security card. Most lenders allow you to apply online, and within a few business days, you’ll know whether you’ve been approved or not, as well as the conditions of the loan.
Are You a First-Time Buyer?
Buying your first home is a big deal, and it’s important to have the right agent by your side throughout the process. If you’re ready to start your search, feel free to reach out to us with any questions. We can’t wait to help jumpstart your journey to homeownership!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Norther Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
When you’re thinking about buying property, one of the
first questions that pop to mind is, “Should I do this on my own or hire
some assistance?” In a huge majority of cases, the answer is that doing
everything on your own will make the process much, much harder, and we’d also
be very surprised if you got a good deal without some assistance. In most
cases, the only real question is: “Should I hire a real estate agent or a
lawyer?” Both can be of invaluable assistance when it’s time to buy a
property, but the ways they can help differ.
Why
You Should Hire a Lawyer
What makes a real estate agent different from a lawyer when it comes to buying a property? First of all, by law, real estate agents cannot give legal advice. While you are not obligated by law to hire a lawyer when buying a property here (unlike in some other states), you may have some legal questions that only a lawyer can answer. For example, you may want to rent a property for some time (let’s say for a year) before making the decision on whether you should buy the property or not. If the seller agrees to that, an attorney can draft this unusual contract and provide legal advice on the matter that a real estate agent could not.
A good lawyer will help you by answering all the legal questions that a real estate agent cannot lawfully answer.
As lawyers charge an hourly fee,
before buying a property and moving in with the help of experienced
professionals from dumbomoving.com,
it’s a good idea to make a list of all the legal questions you may have and arrange
a meeting with an attorney. Then, you can ask everything you need, as well as
make arrangements on all the additional services you may need that a real
estate agent can’t help you with (drafting the contract from the previous
paragraph, for example).
Why
You Should Hire a Real Estate Agent
While a lawyer will help you with
some specific parts of the home buying procedure, you’ll still need to hire a
real estate agent as well. A real estate professional will be with you every
step of the way, acting as a sort of a guide to your home buying process. And
if you’re buying a property, you’ll be pleased to learn that sellers are the
ones who will pay the agents of both parties. The commission is usually 10
percent of the arranged home price, divided equally between the two agents. The
logic behind this rule is that sellers will be receiving a lot of money, and so
they should be the ones to pay all agents who will take care of the buying-selling
process.
So, if you hire a real estate agent, your wallet won’t have a problem with that; you will basically get an invaluable service for free. And what exactly does that service entail? Buying a property is a complex procedure – lots of paperwork will need to be done, inspectors will need to be hired, a comparative home prices analysis will need to be prepared, etc. While some lawyers will try to convince you that they can do everything on their own, that is most often not the case. Real estate professionals will be better at all of these tasks, simply because they have dedicated their lives to buying and selling real estate; they have much more experience and they know how to use it.
Apart from many other ways that a real estate agent can help you, he or she will be able to find a perfect house for you in the specified neighborhood.
This gives them an edge in all sorts
of home-buying tasks. Apart from the ones we have already mentioned, they are
also much better at negotiating. Let’s say that, for example, some parts
of the home will need to be fixed. You’ll need to determine whether you or the
seller will be the one who has to make these repairs. In this case, a good real
estate agent will help you negotiate an arrangement that is better for you
financially. What’s more, an experienced real estate agent who is a good fit
for you will be acquainted with the neighborhood where you’re looking for your
dream home. He or she will know just what to look for based on your
description.
Additional
Things to Have in Mind
So, should you hire a real estate agent or a lawyer? The answer is – why not both? Combining the individual strengths of these two professions will get you the best deal. Rely on attorneys for legal advice that a real estate agent cannot offer, and hire a real estate agent for everything else.
Before you hire a real estate agent and a lawyer who will seal the deal, you’ll need to have some things in mind. Alt text: A man signing a contract.
Still, simply hiring any real estate
agent and lawyer is not enough; you will need to find a dependable and competent real estate agent, and the same goes for your lawyer. Here is what to look
out for:
Sometimes, it may so happen that an opportunity to share a real estate agent with the seller emerges. In our opinion, that would be wrong to do. As real estate agents make a living off of commissions, they might be looking for the sellers’ best interest in this situation and not yours. Ethical agents who won’t do this certainly exist, but it’s best to be on the safe side anyway.
Real estate agents may press you to offer a higher price because of similarly unethical reasons. The more you pay, the larger their commission, after all. What’s more, some of them will be afraid to negotiate because doing so might mean that they won’t get to close the deal. If it seems that your agent doesn’t respect your opinion and is only looking to close the deal as soon as possible, it is best to find a different agent. Doing research on your own regarding home prices in the given neighborhood will help you avoid such unpleasant situations.
Most lawyers prefer to be hired and paid only after the home buying process is complete. However, it may suit you more to only pay for one consulting session or one or two specific tasks. That can be arranged, just have the arrangement in writing (better safe than sorry).
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Norther Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
This Home Buyer Workshop event will feature on-site loan consultations as well as our “Love it or Leave it” program. In addition, you’ll gain access to other premium programs that are unavailable to the general public! This event is FREE to attend, so make sure to set the date on your calendar! A Q&A will also be held featuring some of the industries best vendors: such as a Michael Ullmann, a mortgage representative, a title company, and a home inspector. Seats do tend to fill up, so make sure to reserve yours today!
RSVP by Sept. 25th at 540-388-2541 or email: Cheryl@licatagroup.com.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my homeworth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Once you’ve found the perfect home and secured the loan, all that’s left to do is start chipping away at those mortgage payments…right? In actuality, there are a handful of other, often-overlooked expenses that come with buying a home, but as long as you know what you’re getting into, they’re plenty manageable.
Take a look at our comprehensive list of all the costs of buying a home.
One-Time Payments & Closing Costs
Closing Costs
For buyers, closing costs are typically low and range from 2-5% of your purchase price. A lot of these costs are one-time expenses, and totals can vary from state-to-state.
If you want a better idea of what closing costs could be for you, check out this helpful guide on the average payments for each state.
Miscellaneous Fees
There are quite a bit of one-time fees bundled into your closing costs, but most of them are pretty inexpensive. Some of the most common expenses include the home inspection, appraisal, credit report, deed recording, land survey, notary fees, title insurance, and document prep fees.
Recurring Payments
Mortgage Payments
Mortgage payments are the most obvious cost when buying a home. These are your predictable, monthly payments decided by both the final price of your home and your down payment—in addition to a few other bundled costs. A larger down payment means a smaller mortgage payment, and it’s a good idea to pay this off quickly, since it will accumulate interest.
Property Taxes
Property tax payments don’t go towards just one thing—they actually cover quite a bit, like road construction, community maintenance, public works, and local government salaries. The exact amount you’ll pay in property tax is calculated by the county based on your home’s value, and the rates tend to rise and fall over time. Many buyers pay their property taxes through an escrow account set up by the lender.
Homeowner’s Insurance
It’s better to have insurance and not need it than need insurance and not have it, so homeowner’s insurance is pretty crucial to home owning. While it’s almost always required when you get a mortgage and then bundled into your monthly payments, be sure to double-check that you’re covered.
Private Mortgage Insurance
If you can’t afford a 20% down payment on your home, you’ll have to pay PMI as a way to ensure that the lender won’t go under if you default on your loan. You don’t have to pay PMI forever—it ends once you pay off 78% or more of the principal amount—but until then, expect to pay up to 2% of your loan amount annually.
HOA Fees
Moving to a neighborhood with an HOA? Your dues can range anywhere from under a hundred dollars to over a thousand, but they come with perks like landscaping and exterior maintenance, and some even include added benefits like swimming pools and fitness centers. Not all neighborhoods have an HOA, but your agent can tell you what your payments will be if yours does.
Utilities
Lastly, utility fees can come as a surprise to new homeowners who are used to renting. Depending on the size of your home, you can expect to pay a few hundred dollars per month for water, electricity, heating and cooling, and trash services. If you’re curious what your utility bills might look like, just ask your agent, and they can likely secure a few statements from the past owners.
Ready to Make an Offer?
When it comes to buying a home, the most important thing you can do is be prepared. While there are a handful of costs to keep in mind, the satisfaction of calling a place your own is well-worth it in the end.
Are you ready to get started on your home-buying journey? With years of professional and local experience, our team knows all about navigating the expenses that come with buying. Give us a call today at (540) 388-2541 to get a better idea of your costs, and let’s get started!
This epic Home Buyer Workshop event will feature on-site loan consultations. Come and learn about the first of it’s kind: “Love it or Leave it” program and have access to other premium programs not available to the general public!! Completely FREE event. There will be Q&A with industry’s best vendors: including a mortgage representative, a home appraiser, a title company, and a home inspector. Save your seat! RSVP by April 1st at 540-388-2541 or email: Jane@LicataGroup.com. We look forward to seeing you there!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my homeworth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
