Buyers Guide

Interested in property in the Geneva Lakes Area?

Then please contact me by email at deebark@sbcglobal.net for updates and assistance with properties meeting your criteria

________________________________________________

Important Tips for Home Buyers

• Pre-qualify before you start looking - This is a free bank service offered to help you evaluate your income level and expenses. Be honest with your banker about your financial obligations and you'll save yourself time and worry in the long run.
• Select a banker or mortgage broker who knows the area and is familiar with local values. Choose someone you can trust and who knows local real estate property values.
• Choose an experienced realtor to work with - One who knows the area and with whom you're comfortable. Select carefully and don't hesitate to ask questions. Working with Multiple Listing, you'll be able
• Educate yourself on the market - See at least 7-10 properties. With your agent's help you'll be able to obtain an overall perspective of the home market. Ask for comparable sales, location of schools and future developments in the area.
• Inspect Carefully - with a State Licensed home inspector and ask questions. Plan to be there during the inspections and don't hesitate to inquire about  items you don't understand. For condo purchases go over the CC&R's, by-laws and association fees. Do not take anything for granted..inspect everything!
• Check out all costs and expenses before you sign - Utilities, taxes, insurance, maintenance and home owner dues if applicable. Make sure all utilities (gas, electricity, and water) are on during your walk-through so you can inure everything is in working order. Be detail conscious.
• If it's not in writing, it does not exist - All promises and discussions should be in writing. Don't make any assumptions. Even the best intentions can be misinterpreted. Get the seller's written approval on all agreements.
• Do a final walk-through the day before closing - Visit the property after all furnishings have been moved out. Be sure the property is in the condition you agreed to in the contract.
• Plan for flexibility - Allow for contingencies and have a back-up plan should you or the sellers need additional time to conclude the final arrangements.