Choosing an Agent
Partnering with the right agent can determine your entire buying experience. Buying a property can be a complicated undertaking. The purchasing process requires a comprehensive understanding of complex legal issues and lots of paperwork. Your agent will be walking you through the entire process, so it’s important to choose a compatible partner.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing your real estate professional:
- Consider a Full-Time Agent: They’re usually more committed to being available and have dedicated their career to the profession.
- Interview a Few Agents: Are they familiar with the area in which you are interested? Have they beenaround the area for at least a few years?
- Agent Availability: Ask how much time the agent will have for you, and if they are available at night and on weekends if needed?
- Experience and Education: How many years of experience do they hold? Are they continuing to stay current on legal changes? Are they studying market conditions?
- Communication: Do they respond promptly? Are they handling too many clients at once and unable to work with your schedule? Would you trust them to negotiate on your behalf?
Select an agent who listens attentively to your needs and concerns, has the necessary experience, is familiar with the area, and is dedicated to finding you the right property. Interview a few different agents so you know your options and feel comfortable with your decision.
When you are ready to get started, call us at (925) 754-6100 or complete this short form and one of our agents will be in touch.
Tips For Buying The Perfect Home
Don’t Max Out Your Budget
Just because you’ve been approved for a max amount, doesn't mean you should spend it all on the home's sale price. You will want to set some of that aside for closing costs, taxes and potential home repairs or remodeling.
Get To Know The Area
Make sure the neighborhood works for you and your family - are you close to schools and is shopping conveniently located? Location is important because it’s the one feature that can’t be changed.
Don’t Skip The Inspection
Inspections are worth their weight in gold and will draw attention to problems you may not otherwise see, giving you peace of mind and letting you make more informed decisions about your purchase.
Get Pre-Approved
Getting pre-approved by a lender lets the seller know you are serious and ready to purchase a home and that you are not just window shopping. Check out our list of recommended lenders here.
Make a List of Deal Breakers
Know what you can live with and what you cannot live without and also those things that can be taken care of with a simple remodel. If you need a 4 bedroom home, don't buy one with 2 that requires a massive addition which can break your budget.
Look At The Age Of Appliances & Other Systems
Some of the most expensive features of a home are Appliances, HVAC, Hot Water Heater, Septic/Well, and Roof. You should pay attention to their age and whether they have required service. You may even be able to get the seller to add a home warranty.
Check For HOA Requirements
Most neighborhoods have HOAs that govern what you can and can't do - be sure you know what the rules are for your neighborhood, and the fees associated with having an HOA. They are usually listed as annual fees.
What Price Range Can I Afford?
Resources For East Bay Home Buyers
The journey to homeownership starts by understanding how much you can afford. One major thing to consider is your down payment, if any. Many consumers believe it's impossible to buy a home without at least 20 percent down. But thanks to various government-sponsored programs, many people can now buy a house with as little as 3.5 percent toward a down payment. Veterans of the U.S. military have zero-down programs available.
Finding a knowledgable Mortgage Loan Officer is key to recieving the most up-to-date information on available lending options. Feel free to check out or vetted list of preffered lenders below - or, if you just want to run some quick rough numbers, check out our free mortgage calculator.
