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

Buying a home can be stressful for many people, but with a bit of planning ahead of time, it's not that hard. I like to provide buyers with an outline of the entire deal so they know exactly what to expect. These are my nine steps to buying a home. If you have questions about this information or if you're prepared to get started, you can contact me here or e-mail me at .

Step 1 – Prepare to purchase a home
There are many things you should consider before you search for a home. When you begin your search, you'll want to assemble an outline of features you want, get a feeling for what neighborhoods and school districts you'd like to live in, and start planning around your budget. A good guideline to go by is that your mortgage payment should be around 30 percent 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 comes in. I'd be happy to plan a time to get together with you and speak with you regarding your real estate needs and get an idea of your plans for the future. We'll talk about everything from neighborhoods, schools in the Fort lauderdale area, the mortgage and housing industries, to any other economic factors that might affect your buying decision today or in the future.

I'll also help you start the loan process. There are some very good mortgage professionals in Fort lauderdale, and I partner with a lot of them, so you're in great hands. They can help you determine which kind of loan is best for you, as well as help you get approved.

Step 3 – Begin looking
Following our initial meeting, I'll begin finding homes on the market that are a great fit for you. I'll preview most of the homes and eliminate the bad ones, and then we'll book appointments to view the homes when it's most convenient for you.

When we view houses, I'll point out good features, as well as bad ones. I'll even ask you to talk about things you like and don't like. It's pretty common for buyers to update their wish list as we view houses and some things become far more necessary than others. If that's the situation, I'll look through all the listings again and trim it down to the house you've been dreaming about.

Step 4 – Comprehend the market
My knowledge of the Fort lauderdale home market is a crucial component in your home search. I'm familiar with all the school districts and neighborhoods, and I can communicate what neighborhoods are "hot" and warrant prompt action and the ones that are "cold" and allow for thoughtful consideration.

As we tour homes, I'll be sure to tell you when the asking price has room for negotiation and also when I believe the house is "priced to sell." Any REALTOR in Fort lauderdale will tell you they truly know the market, but beware, and be sure to ask your agent plenty of questions. If things don't add up, call me at 9548184743 or e-mail me at , and I'd be glad to answer any questions you have. My understanding of the market will keep you a step above the rest through the entire deal.

Step 5 – Find the home of your dreams
We'll find the home of your dreams in the Fort lauderdale area, and when we do, I'll thoroughly create your purchase offer. The offer will be tailored to suit your needs and the home, including many contingencies, such as getting financing, completing the home inspection, and a clean title.

Upon presenting your offer, you'll probably need to present "earnest money." This is a cash deposit given to the seller to secure an offer to buy the property. The amount is often put towards the cost of closing. If the seller accepts your offer, we should close on the property about 30 to 60 days afterward. This allows enough time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate
Most deals aren't closed on the initial offer, and it's pretty common to receive a counter offer. But don't let this discourage you. We'll talk about whether or not to take the counter offer, propose our own counter offer, or refuse the seller's offer and move on.

Market circumstances determine how aggressively we negotiate the contract. We'll also work within your budget. And when it's all said and done, we'll formulate a contract that's best for you.

Step 7 – Secure your loan
Upon completion of the contract, you'll begin working with your mortgage lender to close the loan. It won't take very long at all if you're already pre-approved, but you'll need to stay in close contact with your lender. And I'll handle all the property information your lender needs to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
Your lender will give you a Loan Estimate (LE) outlining your closing costs within three days of receiving your application. You'll get a Loan Estimate (LE) detailing closing costs from your lender within three days of receiving your loan application. The estimate rests on the loan amount. RESPA requirements dictate that it has to contain all closing costs and fall within a close range of accuracy, and I'll analyze the estimate and let you know if it all looks okay.

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

Step 9 – Move in
Congratulations! It's time to move into your new house. Enjoy it. And if you need anything or have any questions, make sure you call me at 9548184743 or e-mail me at .