Are you contemplating buying your new home in Fort lauderdale? Charles Rutenberg Realty, Fort Lauderdale, The Scott Todd / Mike Imperiale Team can help.

Purchasing a home is intimidating for many people. However, with a bit of planning ahead of time, it's not very hard. I like to give buyers a road map of the whole deal so they'll know exactly what to expect. Below are my nine steps to purchasing a home. If you have questions regarding this information or if you're ready to get started, just contact me here or e-mail me at .

Step 1 – Get ready to purchase
There are many things you need to do before you start searching for a home. When you begin your search, you'll probably want to put together an outline of features you need, get an idea of what neighborhoods you'd like to live in, and start planning your budget. A good rule to follow is that your mortgage payment should be less than 1/3 of your monthly income.

Step 2 – Speak with a real estate agent in Fort lauderdale
That's where I come in. I'd be more than happy to set up a time to meet with you and speak with you regarding why you want to buy a home and get an idea of your future plans. We'll discuss everything from neighborhoods, school districts in the Fort lauderdale area, the mortgage industry, to any other economic factors that could potentially affect your purchase today or in the future.

In addition, I'll assist you in getting started on your loan. There are some great mortgage professionals in Fort lauderdale, and I work with a lot of them, so you can rest assured that you're in great hands. They will help you figure out which kind of loan is best for you, as well as help you get qualified.

Step 3 – Begin house hunting
After our first meeting, I'll start searching for available homes on the market that meet your needs. I'll get a sneak peek of many of the houses and remove the duds, and then we'll schedule appointments to tour the homes when it's most convenient for you.

When we view the houses, I'll identify positive features, as well as negative ones. I'll also ask you about things you like and don't like. As a rule, buyers update their wish list as we tour homes and some items become far more substantial than others. If that's the case, I'll look through all the listings again and narrow it down to the house you've been wishing for.

Step 4 – Understand the market
An agent's awareness of the Fort lauderdale housing market is an essential component in your house search. And I assure you I'm mindful of all the school districts and neighborhoods, and I can communicate which areas are "hot" and demand prompt action and the ones that are "cold" and allow for careful consideration.

As we view homes, I'll be sure to tell you when the asking price has room for negotiation and also when I trust the house is "priced to sell." Be mindful and be sure to ask a lot of questions, as every real estate agent will tell you they understand the market. If it seems like they don't know everything, just call me at 9548184743 or e-mail me at , and I'll be glad to answer any questions you may have. My market knowledge will keep you a step ahead throughout the entire process.

Step 5 – Find the home you've been waiting for
I'm positive we'll find your dream house in Fort lauderdale. When that happens, I'll precisely create your purchase offer. The offer will be tailored to suit your needs and the home, including a lot of contingencies, such as getting financing, finishing the inspection, and a clean title.

When submitting your purchase offer, you'll probably want to present "earnest money." This is a cash deposit made to a seller to secure the offer to purchase the property, and it's typically applied to the cost of closing. If the seller accepts your offer, we should close on the property within 30 to 60 days afterward. This allows ample time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate
A lot of contracts aren't closed on the beginning offer – it's really common to receive a counter offer. Don't let this intimidate you. We'll figure out whether or not to accept the counter offer, submit our own counter offer, or decline the seller's offer and move on.

The state of the market will play a role in how aggressively we negotiate the deal. In addition, we'll work within your financing limits. And when it's all said and done, we'll assemble a deal that works well for you.

Step 7 – Get financing
Upon finishing the contract, you'll start working with your mortgage lender to close the loan. It shouldn't be a long process at all if you've been pre-approved, but you'll want to keep in close contact with your lender. And I'll take care of all the property information your mortgage lender needs to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
You'll get a Loan Estimate (LE) outlining your closing costs from your lender within three days of receiving your application. The estimate is formed from the loan amount, and RESPA requirements order that it has to involve all closing costs and fall within a narrow range of accuracy. I'll review the estimate and let you know if it all looks adequate.

Then it's time to close on your house. This should take place at a title company or escrow office and is often a smooth and peaceful occasion.

Step 9 – Move in
Congratulations! Now you can move into your new house. Enjoy it. And if you need anything, be sure to call me at 9548184743 or e-mail me at .