#1
Choosing An Agent
Your Agent Will Walk You Through The Entire Process.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT AGENT
Selecting the right real estate agent can have a huge impact on your entire buying experience. Purchasing a home can be a complex process, involving legal details and a lot of paperwork. Your agent will guide you through every step, so it's important to find someone you feel comfortable with and who understands your needs.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing your real estate professional:
- Consider a Full-Time Agent: Full-time agents are usually more committed to being available and have dedicated their careers to real estate, so they can give you the attention you deserve.
- Experience and Education: How long have they been in the business? Are they up-to-date on legal changes and market conditions? A knowledgeable agent will ensure a smoother process for you.
- Interview Multiple Agents: Get to know your agent’s familiarity with the area you're interested in. Have they lived or worked in the area for a few years? They’ll be better able to provide insight into the local market and neighborhoods.
- Agent Availability: Ask how much time they can dedicate to you. Are they available during evenings or weekends if needed? Make sure their schedule aligns with your needs.
- Communication: Are they quick to respond to your questions? Are they handling too many clients at once, which could delay their responses? Make sure they’ll be able to work around your schedule and communicate clearly throughout the process.
When selecting an agent, look for someone who listens to your needs, has experience in the area, and is dedicated to finding the right home for you. Interview a few agents to explore your options and make sure you feel confident in your choice.
When you're ready to start, give us a call at 928.848.1188 or complete this short form, and one of our agents will be in touch.
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Tips for Buying the Perfect Home in Prescott
Don’t Stretch Your Budget Too Thin
While it’s great to be approved for a specific loan amount, it’s wise not to spend the full amount on the home’s sale price. Be sure to leave room in your budget for closing costs, taxes, and any potential repairs or updates you might want to make once you move in.
Get To Know The Area
Make sure the neighborhood fits your lifestyle. Is it close to schools? Is shopping conveniently located? Location is one of the few things about a home that can’t be changed, so it’s important to make sure it aligns with your needs and long-term plans.
Don’t Skip The Inspection
A home inspection is one of the best investments you can make. It will uncover any hidden issues that might not be visible during a casual walkthrough. This gives you peace of mind and helps you make a more informed decision about your purchase.
Get Pre-Approved
Getting pre-approved by a lender shows sellers that you’re serious about buying and ready to make a move. It also helps you better understand your budget, so you’re not wasting time on homes outside of your price range. Check out our list of trusted lenders here.
Make a List of Deal Breakers
It’s important to know what features are non-negotiable for you and what you can live without. Can a simple remodel fix some issues, or are there major changes required? For example, if you need four bedrooms, don’t settle for a two-bedroom home that would require a costly addition.
Check The Age Of Appliances And Major Systems
Some of the most expensive parts of a home are the appliances, HVAC system, hot water heater, septic/well, and roof. Be sure to check the age of these systems and whether they’ve been well-maintained. You might even be able to negotiate a home warranty to cover these systems after you move in.
Understand HOA Requirements
Many neighborhoods have homeowner associations (HOAs) with rules about what you can and can’t do with your property. Make sure you’re familiar with the HOA’s regulations and any associated fees, which are typically listed as annual costs.
ONE PARTNER FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESATE NEEDS
What Price Range Can I Afford?
Resources For Prescott Home Buyers
The journey to homeownership starts by understanding how much you can afford. One major thing to consider is your down payment, if any. Many consumers believe it's impossible to buy a home without at least 20 percent down. But thanks to various government-sponsored programs, many people can now buy a house with as little as 3.5 percent toward a down payment. Veterans of the U.S. military have zero-down programs available.
