Charleston SC Metro Real Estate: Headache in a Bottle - the home buying process.

For most people, buying a home for the first time can be quite strenuous.  The  paperwork, the legal jargon, and the prospect of a huge hole in their pocketbook that comes with owning a home can be quite daunting.  But, perhaps the most stressful thing about buying a new home is the overwhelming sense of fear and anxiety that one feels throughout the entire process.  This fear and anxiety can be attributed to several things but mostly to the buyer's sense of not knowing what is going on. 

Far too often real estate agents rush a customer or client through the stages without ever giving an overview of what is going to happen.  This leaves the buyer (especially if they are a control freak like myself) feeling confused and overwhelmed.  This can be eliminated by simply giving the buyer a step-by-step process of how everything usually works. 

THE REAL ESTATE PROCESS

1. Agency - great time to discuss agency if you have not already done so.  Agency is the cornerstone to the rest of the process.
2. Mortgage Application - this is essential to complete before you start previewing houses.  This is how we assess the buying power of the buyer and determine what price range to search within.
3. Home Search - the MLS is an essential tool to view homes.  Narrow down the amount of homes to be previewed by looking at the pictures and information provided.  Don't get 20 homes that fit your needs and go look at all of them.  Narrow it down as much as possible.  This is the hardest part for the buyer.
   
4. Find Home/Write Contract - What is a ratified contract? Understand "buyer's remorse."   "It happens to everyone."
5. Negotiations - how to get the most for your money.
6. Ernest Money - be prepared to bring ernest money  to  show the seller that you are serious. How much?
7. Inspections - Home Inspection, Termite Inspection, Lead Paint: how much does it cost and who does it? Do you really need the inspections?
8. Appraisal - General Rule is that the lender's appraisal is sufficient.  Should you get one if you are not financing?
9. Closing - what to bring?  How much money to bring?  Prepare to sign a lot of paperwork! 
   

I provide a checklist so that my buyer is constantly aware of where we are in the home buying process.  I also remind my buyers that I am here to facilitate the entire process and ensure we have a successful sale.