Buying A Home
Buying a home is an exciting and often overwhelming experience, particularly if you are buying your first home. As your REALTOR®, we can help you through the home buying process and assure that you find just the right home, at the right price for you.
Your numerous concerns are normal. We are here to help you with each one:
1. The Home Buying Time Frame
With so many variables in the home-buying process, the time it takes to find and buy your new home will vary, too. A typical home search process takes two to three months, including the mortgage approval process, comparing and evaluating properties, making an offer and the closing process. The loan process typically takes 30-45 days or special cases, 10-21 days.
2. The Lending Process
Perhaps one of the most intimidating aspects of buying a home is the mortgage approval process. We are here to guide you through this, and when you prepare early the process becomes even smoother.
Start by making sure your budget is under control—make a list of all your monthly expenses, compare it with your income, and see if adjustments need to be made. You should also try to pay off small credit card balances. Start gathering documents you may need, such as W-2 forms, income tax returns for the past few years, pay stubs, records of child support or alimony, bank statements for the past several months, and your credit report. Also, be sure to allow for closing costs.
3. Determining How Much You Can Afford
A general guideline to consider is that most buyers purchase a home that costs about one and a half to two and half times their current annual income. Mortgage payments should be about 26-28 percent of your gross monthly income. Existing debt is also considered in the mortgage process, and total debt payments (car payments, credit cards, student loans, etc.) should not exceed 40 percent of your gross monthly income. Click here to use this easy mortgage calculator to get an estimate of monthly payments.
4. Finding a Home that Meets Your Needs and Wants
Before you start looking at properties, make a list of “must-have” features along with optional features you’d like to have. “Must-have” features may include the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you’ll need to accommodate your family, location (consider commute to work, which schools your children will attend, etc.), lot size and special needs (handicapped access, etc.). Optional features may include the architectural styling, bay windows, landscaping, etc. Having a clear idea of what you want in a home will help your REALTOR® find the perfect property for you.
Educating yourself about the home-buying process is key to getting a home you love and can afford. As your REALTOR®, we are here to answer any questions you might have and guide you through this process.
Some of Our Client Testimony
WITH ALISHA, HOME PURCHASING IS SO EASY
Alisha is very professional when conducting Real Estate service. Her outgoing personality and trustworthy professionalism puts you in good hand.
Alisha always put herself in her clients shoes and always think for you.
When I purchased my new house with Alisha I really don’t needs to think too much since she will always does the work for you.
I will always buy my house with her because I trust her and appreciate for the great service she has done for us.
Alisha is a highly recommended realtor for sure!
~Ery Y.
SECOND TO NONE
Hi Alisha, Thank you so much for assisting us in acquiring our investment property. We are not certain how we could have managed without you. With your guidance we were able to navigate through the entire process from initial search to ownership to remodeling to getting it rented. At each phase, the knowledge and experience you provided was invaluable in reducing delays and minimizing risks. We appreciate and benefited from your negotiation skill, saving us time and cost. And your commitment to customer service is second to none. It was a pleasure working with you and your staff. We would highly recommend you for all real estate needs and look forward to working with you again. Sincerely, Mr. & Mrs. Lee, Irvine