Can we qualify for a loan to purchase a home and if so - how much?
If your household income is $35,000 per year and your credit is in good condition, you can usually qualify for a home loan even if you do not have a down payment. If you have a low down payment or some credit issues, I can usually find market rate enhancing for you.
Should we buy a new home or a re-sale?
New builds and re-sales both have their advantages. A new build may have attractive financing build into the purchase price as well as a wide choice of options. You are also at the beginning of the home's life cycle, which means fewer repairs and lower maintenance costs. A re-sale home may offer more value and more established neighborhoods.
How do we select a location?
Locations are based on distance to work, shopping, School District and neighborhood.
How do we avoid owning 2 homes or no home?
In order to get the best value in the marketplace we should have your home on the market in order to get the highest price that market will allow. When a purchase agreement is written, we can many times make it subject to the seller finding suitable housing. The alternative is for buyers to shop the marketplace and "hope" that a seller will wait for the buyer's home to sell. The third alternative is to build and try to work the timing so that the closings of both homes coincide.
Why should we select you (Richard Sanford) as our agent?
I will always represent buyers as a Buyer's Agent unless you would happen to purchase one of my listings, which would create Dual Agency. I have the qualifications, knowledge and the experience to assist buyers in getting the best values that the marketplace will allow.
How long does process take?
Finding the right home can take 1 to 4 weeks depending on price point, locations being considered and available inventory.
For what type of loan should we apply?
We can analyze you financial situation based upon credit history, down payment and price point to determine which mortgage programs best suit your needs.
How much should we offer if we find a home we want?
Purchase price will depend upon how competitively the home is priced, neighborhood inventory, and seller's motivation.
Are we under any obligation to you or your brokerage?
I do not use buyer contacts which contractually obligate buyers to purchase a home through a specific RealtorŪ or brokerage for a period of up to one year. I feel that I have to earn your business and if I have not done so, you have the right to purchase on your own.
How much do you charge?
My services, experience and expertise are free to buyers since sellers and builders pay the brokerage fee.