When buying a home, a good real estate agent can go along way in reducing the stress that can sometimes accompany the process. This is especially true if you’ve never bought a house before and are unsure of the various steps involved. However, a good mortgage lender is important as well, since they help finance the purchase, allowing you to pay for the home with low, monthly payments instead of having to buy it outright.
While you may have a relative, neighbor, or a “friend of a friend” who works in these industries, it’s still a good idea to do your homework in order to find the right agent and mortgage lender for your particular needs and the particular type of loan you’re considering, whether an FHA loan, VA loan or a simple mortgage. Both industries are highly technical and complicated and it pays to find professionals who know what they’re doing.
If you’re looking for a realtor to help you with selling your home, here are a few tips to consider:
Ask Questions – Your realtor represents you in your search to find a home and should be able to represent your interests well. Ask them questions to make sure that they’re a good fit for you and are deserving of the confidence you’re placing in them.
Consider Experience – There’s a difference between someone who has bought/sold a few houses and someone who has made a career out of it. A part time agent can’t provide you the same level of expertise that someone who has made it their profession can.
Consider Geographical Location – Find a realtor who has experience in the particular market in which the home you wish to buy is located. This will make your search much easier as they’ll know what’s available in the market you’re wishing to live.
Consider Communication – Your realtor should be there for you and any sellers who may be looking to list their home. You need a realtor who can be contacted easily and is always available to answer questions as you search for your new home.
When it comes to mortgage lenders, utilize search engines to read reviews and check their experience with the types of loans you’re considering. Be candid about what you’re looking for and what you can afford. They’ll help you find the loan for your needs, based on the size and type of home you’re considering. They work with people just like you do every day and will do what they can to get you the best rate and make the path to home ownership a clear and simple process.
Realtors and Mortgage Lenders work hand-in-hand in order to help as many people as possible realize the dream of home ownership. Follow these simple tips and you’ll soon be on your way to one of the most unique experiences of your life as you walk in the door of your brand new home.
To learn more about home ownership or mortgage lenders, contact our offices in Joplin, MO and let us know how we can help you. We work with people all across the state, including Springfield, Kansas City and St. Louis and are certain we can help you too!