Buyer's Information

The time has arrived! You're going shopping for a home. You've got your eye on a nice area and have a good idea of what you can afford. You re excited! And despite feeling a little nervous, you re ready for the task. Or are you? If you're like the majority of buyers, you're probably not. You won't be ready until you become an informed buyer. Being an informed buyer can save you thousands of dollars. And cost you just as much when you aren’t. The tips listed below will help you buy safely and for the lowest possible price.

1. To get a genuinely good deal you'll need to gather details of prices of homes currently for sale, recent home sales and the market - BEFORE you jump in.

2. DO NOT reveal personal or financial information to the agent or seller. And conceal your excitement when you fall in love with a home. This, and the maximum price you can pay, is for you alone to know.

3. Get a mortgage preapproval. It can be done within a matter of minutes. Many sellers require this. It also can make your offer stronger when you find the right home.

4. Determine at the outset what you MUST have and what you would LIKE in a home. Then, give this picture to the agent with a conservative price range - NOT your maximum figure.

5. Show some interest in EACH home you're shown which has desirable features. Then, when the right one comes along you won't blatantly telegraph your true degree of interest - a BIG point for you.

6. When you find the right home and are ready to make an offer, DO Not offer asking price. It is best to start low, perhaps 10% less than asking price and then gradually increase your offer if the need arises.

7. Hire a professional home inspector. He will provide you with a report on the condition of the home and the its systems. If there are problems, ask the seller to fix them; or ask for a price consession. Or, if you can not reach a compromise…walk away.

8. Negotiation is the key to getting a good deal. A few simple tactics will save you money and protect your interests. This know-how guards you against traps and costly mistakes and will help you CREATE - and buy at - the TRUE lowest price. Negotiation of this type is quiet and subtle - no haggling or hard bargaining is required. And there is NO conflict at all! Should you have any questions, please call us at 732-988-8900