Month: May 2022

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Mortgage News Matters

Six Tips to Help You Get The Home You Want

With a soaring demand for homes in the US and little to choose from, forming an offer that will stand out can be the reason you secure your dream home. Here is a list of pro tips that can help you beat the competition this year.

  1. Show them you are financially ready.

In today’s market, you will likely need to make an offer that exceeds the asking price to get the home that you want. Even just a few thousand dollars extra can be the reason for winning or losing out on a home. Your real estate agent will likely be able to give you a good estimate of how much you will need to go over the asking price, however, sometimes you will naturally have a good idea.

2. Put yourself in the seller’s shoes.

A seller will usually be reviewing and comparing the multiple offers that are on the table. You will want to position your offer to stand out among the rest in any way that you can. They will be looking closely at the offer amounts, length of escrow, and any leaseback periods or contingencies. Place yourself in the mind of the seller and think about what their goals are to get a better idea of how to work with your budget, and turn your offer into the strongest version of itself.

3. Get pre-approved for the specific home that you want to purchase.

With multiple offers, sellers want to make sure that at the end of the day, the sale will go through. A pre-approval letter will show the seller that you are not a risk and give you higher ground to work on. In addition to your pre-approval letter, ask your lender to write you one that is specific to the home you are attempting to purchase.

4. Eliminate any Contingencies.

Sellers want to close as quickly as possible so keeping your contingencies as short as possible will eliminate ways for a buyer to back out of a deal. If you can’t remove a contingency altogether then see how you can shorten its timeline while remaining protected from any risks.

5. Be flexible with timing.

Agree to a closing date that accommodates the seller’s needs. Working your schedule around the sellers is a way to set yourself apart by showing that you value their time.

6. Make it Personal.

It’s not always easy for sellers to part with their homes, so they often will want a buyer that will love it the way they do. Adding any kind of personal touch is likely to be appreciated, and shows them you are serious about sealing the deal. A handwritten letter introducing yourself to explain why you love the home can be an effective method. Sending them flowers and a family photo can help create a personal connection as well.

Categories
Mortgage News Matters

Costs to Consider When Purchasing a Home.

Buying a home is likely to be the largest purchase you make in your lifetime. Along with the price tag, there are other costs to also consider. Costs will vary from buyer to buyer due to a few different factors including the type and length of the loan you receive, as well as location and demand. It is important to familiarize yourself with these financial obligations prior to beginning your home search. To help with understanding more about what comes along with the purchase of your home, here is a list of costs you will need to consider.

Down payment:

The down payment is a set price you pay upfront when you purchase a home. Through a conventional loan, a down payment is required and will be determined based on the property type and the price of the home. The amount you put down on a home will affect your interest payment as well. The larger the down payment, the lower your interest rate. However, some loans such as a VA loan or USDA don’t always require a down payment.

Closing Costs:

To finalize your mortgage loan and receive the keys to the property, you will have to submit all closing costs. These costs are each directly related to your mortgage and include the following.

  • Application fee
  • Appraisal fee
  • Credit check fee
  • Underwriting fee
  • Title insurance
  • Title search fee

Property Taxes:

Your property taxes are calculated by your local government where your property is located, and you are required to pay them as long as you own the home. These taxes are based on the value of your home or property and if over time the value is assessed to a higher value, your taxes will increase.

Homeowners and Mortgage Insurance:

Home insurance protects your property against the cost of potential damage from unforeseen circumstances. Homeowners insurance will vary as there are many options available, so it is best to shop around before deciding which one to go with. Mortgage insurance reduces the lender’s risk if you can’t make your mortgage payment.

HOA Fees:

If you are purchasing a home overseen by a homeowners association then you will be required to pay a monthly fee to the community. These fees are in place to keep shared spaces within the neighborhood maintained such as a gym, pool, or landscaping. They also protect other people’s property values by restricting a single homeowner from making a change to their home.

Maintenance Fees:

No matter where you choose to live, you will always have to keep up with regular maintenance and home repairs. Keeping extra funds on the side or setting up an emergency fund for replacing items will help you be better prepared when things break. Planning out a budget and knowing what costs to expect as you begin your home buying journey will eliminate any surprises that you may not have been prepared for.