First Time Buyers

first-time bannerIf you are buying your first home, there are many things to consider and to learn.

The first, and perhaps most important tip, is the fact that using a Realtor® costs absolutely nothing for a Buyer.  You get the benefit of years of experience and the Seller pays the commissions.  You should always start by interviewing a few Real Estate Agents and decide on the one who best meets your personal needs.  Communication is very important so you should feel comfortable with this person.

Secondly – you need to know what you can afford.  It is best to get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start to look for homes.  Mortgage rules change and Incentive packages come and go.  You don’t want to find that perfect place and only then discover that you simply can’t afford it.

Once you have an Agent, and you have a budget, your Agent will help you to narrow down your needs (size, style of home, location, etc) and your wish list.  There is likely going to be a need for compromise!!

Now you start to look.  Your agent will set up appropriate homes for you to view.  Once you find “the one”, the offer process starts and this is where you really get the benefit of a knowledgeable Realtor®.  There is a lot of paperwork involved in a real estate transaction.  Your offer is likely to start out being conditional on a number of things such as financing, home inspection, insurance, etc.  Once conditions are fulfilled, the sale is complete and you prepare for the big move on Closing Day.

Your agent will lead you through the process, step by step, offering suggestions and recommendations and answering questions as you go along.  If you listen well, things should happen without issues and you will soon become first-time home owners!

I always enjoy helping people purchase their first home and never tire of it.  It is always an exciting adventure.  Please don’t hesitate to contact me even if you are just in the initial thought process.  In fact that is the best time to get me involved.

From Kris' Blog

Ottawa MLS® Market Shows Early Signs of a Buzzing Spring Market

The number of homes sold through the MLS® System of the Ottawa Real Estate Board totaled 1,165 units in March 2024. This was an increase of 10% from March 2023. Home sales were 21.5% below the five-year average and 15% below the 10-year average for the month of March. On a year-to-date basis, home sales ...

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