Few things are more powerful than the feeling of home. Buying a new house is a thrilling event, whether it's your first house or your third. But it can also be stressful if you haven't done your homework. Fortunately for you, Coldwell Banker Islands Realty has helped hundreds of buyers purchase Vermont real estate, so we have the experience, knowledge, and wisdom to help you find your dream home.
Coldwell Banker Islands Realty can confidently guide you through the process and provide the information you need to be a well-informed buyer. Take a moment to learn more about the home-buying process. If you have any questions, please get in touch with one of our real estate professionals.
The Benefits of Homeownership
Homeownership brings many responsibilities, but there are benefits to owning your own home. And while the benefits are plentiful, it's also essential to ensure you're prepared for homeownership. Check out our first-time homebuyer advice and steps to prepare for homeownership to help you start your journey.
Affording Your New Home
There are a lot of factors that determine how much you can afford to pay for your new home. Good news for you, we are here to advise you on how to prepare to finance a home and recommend lenders. First, you will want to do is fill out our budget basics worksheet to see how much you can afford. Getting your finances in order will help you realize what you can afford and if you need to evaluate your spending to save money to reach your goals. Your credit score is a significant deciding factor for lenders when they determine how much you’re qualified to borrow for a mortgage. To learn more about how a credit score is calculated, here are 5 factors that decide your credit score. If you don't have the best score, you can take steps to help improve your credit. This is a great place to start getting back on track. When you decide it’s time to go to the bank and ask for a mortgage, there are some things a lender will need from you; make sure you're prepared. As always, ask questions if you’re unsure where to start.
Choosing A Realtor
Buying a home can be a daunting task, and you should have a trusted professional there to help you through the process. Working with a real estate agent who knows the area you’re interested in, understands the market, and has great negotiating skills will ultimately bring you success. It is important your Realtor understands your priorities and that you can build a strong relationship with them. These questions will help you during the agent selection process. Whether you’re a first-time or second-time homebuyer, Coldwell Banker Islands Realty can guide you with ease. Learn more about why you should work with a Coldwell Banker Islands Realty agent.
The Home Search
Once you have talked to a lender and gotten pre-approved, you can start the exciting part—viewing homes! Talk to your Realtor about your home search criteria (town, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, acreage, lakefront, etc.). This will help them show you listings that only meet your criteria. Create a list of your must-haves and compromise. This will keep your priorities in order when it comes to decision time.
Most home searches begin online. Save and share these listings with your real estate agent. Your agent will also be searching for you and be an insider source for any new homes that may be coming on the market. Throughout the viewing process, your Realtor will be an objective voice to keep your search focused and your goals in mind to find the home of your dreams.
Making An Offer
Once you find a home you want to buy, you’ll work with your agent to craft an offer. The offer will include the price you’re willing to pay and the proposed closing date and contingencies—other conditions that must be agreed upon by both parties, such as giving you the ability to do a home inspection and request repairs. The seller may counter your offer; your Realtor will then guide you through negotiations. When your offer is accepted, you will get your financing in order, and any necessary home inspections and appraisals will be scheduled. Typically, it takes 45-60 days to close on a home.
Closing On Your Home
Once your financing is approved, and all purchase and sale agreement conditions are met, you are ready to close on your home! On the closing day, the buyer and seller will sign the final paperwork to transfer the ownership to you officially. After the closing, break out the champagne! You made it to the finish line of your home-buying journey!
Start Your Home Search
Are you ready to start your home search? Sign up for our new listing notifications to be notified when new homes that meet your criteria go on the market. Make sure to connect with one of our real estate experts as well.
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Browse MLS for homes for sale
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View our Virtual Home Tours
Other Resources:
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The Difference Between A Realtor And A Real Estate Agent
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Tips For Buying A Seasonal Home
