Are you contemplating purchasing a new home in Fort lauderdale?

Buying a home can be stressful for many people, but it isn't that hard with a bit of up-front planning. I like to furnish buyers with a road map of the whole deal so they'll know exactly what they can expect. These are my nine steps to buying a home. When you're ready to get started, simply contact me here or e-mail me at . I'm glad to answer questions you have regarding this information.

Step 1 – Prepare to buy
There are many things you need to consider prior to commencing your home search. When you start your search, you'll want to form a check list of items you need to have, plan for what school districts you want to live in, and begin working on your budget. A good rule to adhere to is that your mortgage payment should be no more than 1/3 of your monthly income.

Step 2 – Speak with a real estate agent
This is where Charles Rutenberg Realty, Fort Lauderdale, The Scott Todd / Mike Imperiale Team can help. We can book a time to meet so we can talk about your real estate needs and get an idea of your future plans. We'll discuss everything from neighborhoods, schools in the Fort lauderdale area, the mortgage and housing industries, to any other economic factors that may affect your purchase today or in the future.

I can also help you begin the loan process. Charles Rutenberg Realty, Fort Lauderdale, The Scott Todd / Mike Imperiale Team partners with some of Fort lauderdale's finest mortgage professionals, so you're in great hands. They will assist you in choosing which kind of loan is best for you and help you get qualified.

Step 3 – Start looking
Following our first meeting, I'll begin finding houses on the market that are great for you. I'll preview many of the homes and reject the bad ones, and then we'll set up appointments to view the homes at a time that's convenient for you.

When we tour houses, I'll show you the good features and negative ones. I'll also ask you about things you like and dislike. Usually, buyers update their list of must-haves as we tour homes and some items become far more crucial than others. If such is the case, I'll search the listings one more time and narrow it down to the home you've been wishing for.

Step 4 – Get a grasp of the market
An agent's understanding of the Fort lauderdale housing market is a fundamental component in your home search. And I assure you I'm informed of all the schools and neighborhoods, and I will let you know which neighborhoods are "hot" and require prompt action and some that are "cool" and allow for thoughtful consideration.

When we view houses, I'll be sure to tell you when the asking price has room for bargaining and also when I think the home is "priced to sell." When working with an agent, trust your instincts and make sure you ask lots of questions, as every real estate agent will claim to truly know the housing market. If it seems like they don't know everything, just call me at 9548184743 or e-mail me at , and I'd be happy to answer any questions you have. My knowledge of the market will help you stay a step above the rest throughout the entire process.

Step 5 – Find the home you've been waiting for
I'm certain we'll find the house of your dreams in the Fort lauderdale area. When that happens, I'll meticulously create your real estate purchase offer. The offer will be tailored to suit your needs and the home, including a lot of contingencies. A few examples are obtaining financing, completing the inspection, and a clean title.

Upon sending in your purchase offer, you'll need to present "earnest money." This is a cash deposit made to the seller to secure the offer to purchase the property. The amount is most often applied to the cost of closing. If the offer is accepted by the seller, we should close about 30 to 60 days after. This allows ample time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate the deal
Most deals aren't closed on the beginning offer – it's pretty common to receive a counter offer. But don't let it discourage you. We'll figure out whether or not to take the counter offer, submit our own counter offer, or decline the seller's offer and move on.

Market conditions will play a part in how aggressively we negotiate the contract. We'll also work within your financing constraints. And when it's all said and done, we'll formulate a contract that's best for you.

Step 7 – Secure financing
Upon completion of the contract, you'll start working with your lender to close the loan. If you're pre-qualified, this shouldn't take much time at all, but you'll want to stay in close contact with your mortgage lender. And I'll deal with all the property information your lender will need to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
You'll get a Loan Estimate (LE) detailing your closing costs from your lender within three days of getting your application. This estimate is formed from the loan amount, and RESPA requirements dictate that it has to contain all closing costs and fall within a close range of accuracy. I'll review the estimate and let you know if it all looks okay.

Then it's time to close on your home. This will most often take place at a title company or escrow office and is often a smooth and calm occasion.

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