Buyers' FAQ

Sue has been selling homes for over 26 years and with that experience comes some very helpful tips for buyers.  Below are some of Sue's answers to buyers' most frequently asked questions.  If you have a question you would like to ask Sue, just send her an e-mail or give her a call.

What are the first steps in finding a home?
Should we look at homes that are For Sale By Owner?
How long should we look before buying?
What are the pros and cons of buying a home currently being built?

What are the first steps in finding a home?
The most common way most people go about trying to find a home is by driving around and looking for Sale signs on homes they like.  They usually end up calling lots of agents to see these homes but have a hard time getting anywhere.  The best way to go about buying a home is to first find an agent - preferable a full-time agent - who can talk with you about what type of home you're looking for, what you can afford, where you want to live, etc.  As far as part-time agents, I warn against them because they may have another full-time job and are doing real estate on the side - a problem when something (such as paperwork for an offer) needs a quick turnaround.

Should we look at homes that are For Sale By Owner?
I can show any home listed in the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) database, including FSBO (For Sale By Owner) homes if they have been listed.  However, if they are not listed, you can still view the home but it is best for your protection, as the potential buyer, to have your agent contact the home owner rather than yourself.  Take a look at the Agency Agreement to know why you want to have an agent who represents you and your interests.  Sometimes, not always, but many sellers will tell a potential buyer anything to sell the home.  An agent can arrange for a home inspection and a signed disclosure by the seller.  Also, many homes for sale by owner are overpriced but buyers don't know that because they aren't able to research the area to know if they're getting a good price.

How long should we look before buying?
There really is no set time that you must look for a home before buying - really just however long until you feel comfortable.  However, some outside factors may figure in.  For instance, if you do find a home you really like and are thinking of buying, you will be taking the chance that it may be sold if you don't buy right away.  That does happen.  Yet you want to temper that knowledge with the decision to not make an offer on a home unless you are certain - regardless of whether or not it sells before you make that decision.  A difficult line to tread but in the end you would rather lose a home you really liked rather than buying a home you later decide is not right for you.

What are the pros and cons of buying a home currently being built?
Buying a speculation home that a builder is currently building can be a good thing - especially if it is still early enough in the construction to allow you to pick out things about the home, i.e.. color of carpet, wallpaper or paint, etc.  However, in my experience, it is usually extremely difficult to get a builder to come back after you have closed on the home to repair or finish work on the house, which can be a problem.  Also, if there is a fixed date where you need to move from your current dwelling, your new home may not be ready.  But buying a spec home can also give you the benefits of a new home without having to start from scratch in constructing it.

Have a question that's not listed?  Ask Sue!

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