A ‘Do’ List for Prospective Homebuyers

[Joe Crawford]

A ‘Do’ List for Prospective Homebuyers

For most Canadians, buying a home is the most significant investment
of their lives. And although real estate sales in 2008 are continuing
strong with prices still on the rise, your local Coldwell Banker®
sales professional will tell you that today’s market still presents
many genuine real estate opportunities for homebuyers. Housing
inventory is moving up in most major centres across the country,
leading to a more balanced market. Historical data demonstrates that
purchasing a home has proven a sound long-term financial investment.
However, homebuyers – especially first-time buyers -- are often
understandably anxious when it comes time to making what could be the
largest purchase in their life. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC has
come up with some simple "do” and “don’t" lists to make the process
easier for everyone dreaming of homeownership.
The Homebuyer ‘DO’ List:

* DO utilize free online tools to arm you with as much knowledge
as possible. For example, the Home Price Comparison Index available at
http://www.coldwellbanker.com offers buyers a way to compare average
housing costs in over 400 markets across North America.
* DO access and closely review your credit score. A sound
financial track record and solid credit score can help lock in a loan
and lower interest rates. Check your records in advance to catch any
errors ahead of time, and to better understand how lenders may
perceive you.
* DO explore mortgage pre-approval. Getting this early green light
will help others involved with your purchase that you are serious
about home ownership – and well-qualified.
* DO line up your "all-star" team of professionals before game
day. A team of experienced professionals will be key to making the
home buying process simple and seamless. Start by interviewing and
selecting a sales representative who you "connect" with. Your local
Coldwell Banker® sales professional can help you identify suitable
lawyers, mortgage lenders, home inspectors and others who play a role
in the process.
* DO anticipate your future needs and buy for lifestyle. Try to
anticipate how long you’ll live in your next home and plan for major
lifestyle changes when possible. What may make a perfect starter home
for a couple might not work as well when children come into the
picture.
* DO hone in on your housing priorities. Your ideal home may have
a porch, a pool and five full baths. But before you start looking,
make sure to separate your "must-haves" from your "nice to haves," so
you know where you can compromise to meet your budget.

Wondering about the “Don’t” list? Stay tuned for our next column, or
better yet, contact your local Coldwell Banker real estate
professional now to learn more.

Thinking of buying or selling real estate and want some creative
financing solutions? Contact your local Coldwell Banker ® sales
professional. It might just be the best call you’ll make all year!


Buying or Selling? Special Pricing for Kitchener/Waterloo Real Estate
Group Members


Joe Crawford
Real Estate Sales Representative
Coldwell Banker Peter Benninger Realty, Brokerage
(519) 742 5800 x 2117
www.kitchener-waterloo-homes.com