We realize that every home-buying experience is different. However, we pride ourselves on the ability to cater to every type of property search. Our dedication to service, genuine compassion and attention to detail remain our top priorities.

The three most important things we provide our Buyers are:

• Patience,
• Education and
• Confidence.

I’m definitely not the type of Realtor to push you into the first home you look at. We’ll be as patient as it takes to find you a home, but our home buying system also won’t allow you to waste your time.

We’ll make sure you fully understand each and every document you will be required to sign.

And when you finally reach that point where you’re ready to make a purchase, we’ll make sure:

• you know exactly what you’re buying and its value (we won’t let you pay too much),
• understand, completely, the process involved with making the purchase and best of all,
• you feel confident in your decision to make the purchase.

Our goal is to keep you comfortable, happy and involved.

Following is a list of items to remember, when buying your first home. 

First and Foremost, Meet with a Mortgage Broker

The first thing you should do is meet with a mortgage broker and find out how much you can afford to pay for a home. If you require a list of competent mortgage brokers that have done a good job for us in the past, simply give me a call or email me.

Get Pre-approved for a Mortgage

While knowing how much you can afford is the first step, Sellers will be much more receptive to potential buyers who have actually been pre-approved. Understand the difference between Pre-Qualification and Pre-Approval. Being pre-qualified simply means that you are qualified to apply for a mortgage. You have a job, a credit rating and a pulse, so the bank or mortgage company will allow you to apply for a mortgage. There’s no guarantee you will get it, but you are qualified to apply.

On the other hand, pre-approval means you’ve qualified for a specific amount. Again, even being pre-approved doesn’t necessarily mean you will get the mortgage you require. If you’re applying less than 20% of your own money towards the mortgage, you will have to be insured by CMHC (Canadian Mortgage & Housing Corporation) or similar insurance company. And, before your mortgage is approved, the insurance company will have to approve the sale. If they feel you’ve paid over market value, they could reject the insurance, and you won’t get the mortgage.

At any rate, it is recommended that you meet with a mortgage broker before you go shopping. Knowing what you qualify for ahead of time, means you'll avoid being disappointed by going after homes that are out of your price range and that you’ll be in a much better negotiating position once you do find the perfect house.

Prepare a List of Wants & Needs:

Make two lists. The first should include items you must have (i.e., the number of bedrooms you need for the size of your family, a one-story house if accessibility is a factor, walking distance to a school, etc.).

The second list is your wishes, things you would like to have (pool, den, etc.) but are not absolutely necessary. Realistically for first-time buyers, you probably will not get everything on your wish list, but it will keep you on track for what you are looking for.

Get Professional Representation:

Consider hiring your own real estate agent, one who is working specifically for you, the buyer, not the seller. Many people will call the Listing Realtor to purchase a home. You have to remember, that the Listing Realtor has already signed a legal document with the Seller, and has agreed to provide his undivided loyalty and commitment to the Seller. After signing these documents, how can the Listing Realtor also promise you the same dedication?

And remember, in most cases a Realtor is FREE to Buyers. In Alberta, if the home is listed on the MLS, the Buyer’s Realtor’s fees are paid by the Seller.

In addition, always look for a Realtor with a Buyer’s Designation. I have been awarded the “internationally recognized” ABR designation. ABR stands for Accredited Buyer’s Representative, and it means I’ve been specially trained to deal with Buyers.

Stay Focused & Organized:

In a convenient location, keep handy the items that will assist you in maximizing your home search efforts. Such items may include:

• One or more detailed maps with your areas of interest highlighted.
• A file of the properties that your agent has shown to you, along with ads you have cut out from the newspaper.
• Paper and pen, for taking notes as you search.
• Instant or video camera to help refresh your memory on individual properties, especially if you are attending a series of showings.

Remember, when buying a property it’s all about Location, Location, Location.

Look at a potential property as if you are the seller. Would a prospective buyer find it attractive based on school district, crime rate, proximity to positive (shopping, parks, freeway access) and negative (abandoned properties, garbage dump, source of noise) features of the area?

Visualize the house empty & with your décor. Are the rooms laid out to fit your needs? Is there enough light?

Be Objective:

Instead of thinking with your heart when you find a home, think with your head. Does this home really meet your needs? There are many houses on the market, so don't make a hurried decision that you may regret later.

Be Thorough:

A few extra dollars well spent now may save you big expenses in the long run. Don't forget such essentials as:

• Include inspection & mortgage conditions in your written offer.
• Have the property inspected by a professional inspector.
• Request a second walk-through to take place within 24 hours of closing.
• You want to ensure that no changes have been made to your new home, between the time your offer was accepted and possession date, that were not agreed on (i.e., a nice chandelier that you assumed came with the sale having been replaced by a cheap ceiling light).

All the above may seem rather overwhelming. That is why having me represent you to keep track of all the details is highly recommended.

If you would like more information on this topic, please click here for my contact information.