Couldn't you use up to $8000.00?!

Now is the time to buy or upgrade!  Wouldn't that tax credit help out in your new home? Or to pay some bills?  From now until April 30, 2010, first time buyers will receive via their tax refunds up to $8,000 (10% of the purchase price, with a maximum of $8,000) or current home owners may receive up to $6,500 if they've lived in thier homes 5+ years.

Call me for details, consult your tax professional or use the link below for more information...

http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/

Sure, you can do your home search by yourself. But why? With me at your side, finding the perfect home is easier, faster and a lot more fun. A good Realtor® can show you more suitable properties, offer valuable advice, and coach you through the entire home buying process. And you'll save time. Yet many buyers still spend endless hours pouring through classified ads, driving all over town, and viewing dozens of unsuitable properties - simply because they haven't connected with a Realtor®.

Some people think that if they have several agents looking for homes on their behalf, they'll find a house more quickly. Like most relationships, the buyer-agent relationship thrives on communication, loyalty and trust. By working exclusively with one agent, you'll improve both the process and the results.

So, you've decided you want to participate in the American Dream of home ownership. How exciting! Your home will most likely represent the single largest investment you ever make, whether it's your first home or your tenth. Whether you've spent years saving and preparing to buy a home, or are unsure if you can afford it, the questions surrounding a house purchase can feel endless. 

To make the process go as smoothly as possible, a little pre-planning is in order. Here are some tips to start you on the right track.

 

You can find answers - and peace of mind - by working with All Points Realty!

Here are some tips to help you become your own landlord.  

·        Shop for mortgage rates and terms.
A difference of even half a percentage point can mean a huge savings over the life of a loan. For example, the difference in the monthly payment on a $100,000 mortgage at 8 percent vs. 7.5 percent is about $35 per month. Over 30 years, that's $12,600.

·        Loan pre-approval
Your second step should be to get preapproved, which determines if and how much you can afford.  It allows you to move swiftly when you find the right home, especially when there are other interested buyers. It also indicates to the seller that you are serious and really can afford to buy the property.  Most sellers and REO properties will require a preapproval letter with your purchase offer.

·        Define what you want.
The next step is to create a realistic idea of the property you'd like to buy. What features are most important to you? Make two lists: one of the items you can't live without and one of the features you would enjoy. Refine the lists as you house hunt. I can provide you with your own personal website to view properties that match your criteria.

·        Visit properties.
Now you're ready to visit houses! Ask me to arrange showings and keep track of the properties you've seen.

·        Rate the houses you tour.
After touring each home, write down what you liked and didn't like. Develop a rating system that will help narrow the field down. For example, pick the house you like best on day one and compare all other houses to it. When you find a better one, use the new favorite as the standard.

·        Make an offer.
Once you've pinpointed your dream house, it's time to get serious about the financial and contractual side of the purchase.

·        Arrange for a home inspection.
After your offer is accepted, set up a home inspection. It's common to find problems, including leaky roofs, cracked walls, insect infestations and foundation problems.  If you negotiate repairs as part of the purchase, ask for a "walk through" before finalizing the paperwork.

·        Close.
Before your closing date, make sure you've made all necessary deposits and completed the paperwork - including mortgage, title, homeowners insurance and any other paperwork required by local or state governments.

·        Prepare for life in your new home.
Before rolling out the welcome mat, consider some moving basics: arranging for an alarm company, turning on electricity, water and gas, cleaning or replacing the carpet, and notifying your local post office of your new address. The best time for renovations is often before you move in.