Finding Homes For Sale

You have likely seen “For Sale” signs in front of houses as you drive around. Is driving around the best way to find a house that will match your goals and budget?

Searching online can be a good start to locate houses for sale in the neighborhood you want to live. Your real estate agent can also keep an eye out for new listings that match your goals and expectations.

Keep in mind that you are not just buying a building, you are looking for a home. Somewhere that matches your lifestyle. Here are some things to consider while looking for the perfect home:

• Neighborhood: If you are looking for lively nightlife nearby, you will want to look closer to downtown. But if you are looking to be away from the city lights, less hustle, and perhaps more yard, you may want to search suburbs.
• Commute: You may want to consider how much of your day will be commuting to get to work, school, or other activities that you attend regularly. Are you comfortable with that drive?
• Schools: If you have kids, or are planning to have a family in this home, take time to review the schools in the area. Even if you do not plan on having kids, decent schools tend to add value to the resale of your home if you plan to move again.

What to Look for at the House Viewing

If you decide to make an offer, you can hire a home inspector to perform a more thorough examination of the home, but here are some potential red flags that you can identify upfront:

• Plumbing and electrical issues: Check all light switches and electrical outlets for obvious signs of failure. Make sure that the faucets and toilets work and are not leaking. Look for water damage on the floors and ceilings.
• Old appliances, chimneys and gas furnaces: If these items are older or have not been serviced recently, you may have to have them cleaned, repaired, or replaced after buying. While this is not necessarily a reason not to buy, the cost should be factored into whatever you plan on offering for the house.
• Radon, lead paint, and carbon monoxide: Ask the seller if the home has been tested. If they have not, you may want to add these to items to be inspected after an offer is accepted. Talk to your agent about a possible contingency if the test fail.
• Full or defective gutters: If the gutters are full or not working properly, rainwater may be pooling near the foundation which can be expensive to repair.
• Tree location and quality: It is a good idea to assess the trees near the house and on the property. Are they in good health? What is the likelihood that they could fall during a heavy storm or strong wind?

Why Choose Homewise Financial?

• Application process is completely online.
• Loan specialists available to answer your questions and help you understand the process.
• As a mortgage broker, we have exclusive access to a vast network of lenders to offer competitive rates and diverse loan programs to suit your goals.
• Personalized experience. We will “hold your hand” through the process to ensure your comfortability with the loan program and process.