— BEFORE YOU SHOP —
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Looking to buy a home in Steilacoom, WA or our surrounding area? Choosing your real estate professional is the most important decision you will make when buying property.
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Be a smart consumer. Understand your finances and connect with a lender to shop for a home loan that's right for you.
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Get pre-approved. This takes very little time and lets you know the price range that fits your lifestyle.
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Know what you want. Ask yourself what you're looking for in a home, before you shop. Think about size, commute time and necessary repairs.
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Keep your debt load to a minimum. Don't make major purchases or incur any additional debt until after your purchase.
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Be prepared to view new properties quickly. Sometimes homes sell quickly, so be ready to make fast decisions. Be accessible to change the terms.
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Have instant access to your agent. Instant communication can mean the difference in purchasing the property of your choice.
— BEFORE YOU BUY —
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Submit a strong competitive offer.
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Include a substantial earnest money deposit. Sometimes offers are accepted based on the amount of the deposit.
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Try to minimize the number of contingencies. Fewer contingencies mean a stronger offer.
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Hire an inspector. A professional building inspector or appraiser will make sure the house of your choice is in satisfactory condition.
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Check zoning regulations and covenants. Good residential neighborhoods will be zoned to keep out commercial and industrial users. Read any restrictive covenants and make sure they fit your lifestyle.
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Request an updated property survey. Be sure it clearly marks boundaries. Check for problems.
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Make sure you know what stays or goes.
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Get agreements in writing. Make certain verbal agreements are written into the final contract to avoid any stressful and expensive issues later.