5.MAKE AN OFFER ON THE HOME
Now that you and your real estate agent have found the home
you would like to purchase, it's time to make an offer. Taking into account
the recent sales of homes in that neighborhood which are similar in size,
quality, conveniences, and amenities, what are you willing to pay for the
home? Your real estate agent will consult with you and advise you on how to
create an offer that will have the best chance of being accepted.
Your agent will ensure that you have everything down in written form... no
verbal agreements. After consulting with your agent to put your offer in a
written contract that meets all the legal requirements according to local
and national guidelines, your agent will present the seller with a written
document detailing what needs to be done by both parties to execute the transaction.
The contract should protect the best interests of all parties involved and
should be comprehensive in nature. Your agent will also ensure your financial
position as the buyer by including any necessary contingencies, which would
protect you if a particular requirement were not met. Once the seller accepts
it, it may be too late to make any changes.
The contract, though not limited to this list, should include the following:
· A legal description of the property
· The offering price
· The down payment
· Financing arrangements
· A list of fees and who will pay them
· Amount of the deposit
· Inspection rights and possible repair allowances
· The method of conveying the title and who will handle the closing
· A list of appliances and furnishings which will stay with the home
· The settlement date
· Any relevant contingencies
Remember that the legalities of this phase are very important. If you have
any questions or concerns, they need to be addressed right away. After all,
no one has ever said at their closing, "I wish I had asked fewer questions."
