Buying or selling a home?

With a little up-front planning, buying a home isn't very complex, but the event intimidates many people. I like to supply buyers with an overview of the whole deal so they understand 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 happy to answer any questions you have regarding this information.

Step 1 – Get ready to purchase a home
There are plenty of things you should consider before you start looking for a home. When you begin your search, you'll probably want to make a list of items you need, plan for what school districts you'd like to live in, and start planning your budget. Ensuring your mortgage payment is less than or close to a third of your net monthly income is a good rule to follow.

Step 2 – Contact a real estate agent in Colorado Springs
This is where Brian L. A. Wess comes in. We can set up a time to get together so we can talk about your real estate needs and get an idea of your future plans. We'll discuss the mortgage industry, other economic factors that may affect your purchase today or in the future, as well as neighborhoods and school districts in the Colorado Springs area.

In addition, I'll help you get started on your loan. I work with some of the finest mortgage professionals in Colorado Springs, so you'll be in great hands. They can assist you with determining which kind of loan is best for you and help you get approved.

Step 3 – Start looking for a home
After our first meeting, I'll start searching for houses on the market that are a great fit for you. I'll preview many of the homes and reject the bad ones, and then we'll book appointments to tour the houses whenever it's convenient for you.

When we tour the houses, I'll call attention to positive features and negative ones. I'll also ask you what things you like and don't like. It's widely common for buyers to amend their list of must-haves as we tour homes and some things become more important than others. If such is the case, I'll look through the listings once more and narrow it down to the home you've been waiting for.

Step 4 – Understand the housing market
My knowledge of the Colorado Springs market is a crucial aspect in your home search. I am conscious of all the school districts and neighborhoods, and I will communicate some districts are "hot" and warrant prompt action and the ones that are "cool" and allow for thoughtful analysis.

When we view houses, I'll make sure to communicate when the seller's asking price has room for bargaining and when I know the house is "priced to sell." Every REALTOR in Colorado Springs will tell you they truly understand the housing market, but beware, and be sure to ask your agent a lot of questions. If things don't add up, just call me at 7195286672 or e-mail me at , and I'd be happy to answer any questions you might have. My knowledge of the market will keep you a step above the rest throughout the entire process.

Step 5 – Find your dream house
We'll find your dream home in Colorado Springs, and when we do, I'll meticulously create your home purchase offer. The offer will be tailored with your needs in mind and the home, including many contingencies, such as acquiring financing, completing the home inspection, and a clear title.

When submitting your offer, you'll need to present "earnest money." This is a cash deposit given to a home seller to secure the offer to purchase the property. The amount is usually applied to the cost of closing. If the seller accepts your offer, we should close about 30 to 60 days after. This allows ample time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate
A lot of contracts don't close on the first offer – it's very common to receive a counter offer. Don't let this discourage you. We'll discuss whether or not to agree to the counter offer, present our own counter offer, or reject the seller's offer and go on.

How aggressively we negotiate the contract depends on market conditions. In addition, we'll work within your financing constraints. And at the end of the day, we'll create a contract that works well for you.

Step 7 – Obtain financing
Upon finishing the deal, you'll start working with your mortgage lender to close the loan. It won't take very long at all if you're pre-qualified, but you need to stay in close contact with your lender. And I'll deal with all the property information your mortgage 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 loan application. The estimate rests on the loan amount, and RESPA requirements order that it has to contain all closing costs and fall within a strict range of accuracy. I'll examine the estimate and let you know if everything looks adequate.

Then it's time to close on your house. This will probably take place at a title company or escrow office and should be a smooth and relaxed occasion.

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 7195286672 or e-mail me at .