"How can I get a fair deal on my home purchase?" is a great question that a prosepective client recently posed to us.
With the current market showing a large listing inventory and longer days on market, buyers are reasonable to wonder what kind of "deals" are available to them. There are important tips to keep in mind when making a home purchase in 2008:
- Use the Internet: it helps educate you about the market and narrow down your choices. But keep in mind that it is a resource, not a representative of your needs and concerns. You will want to use the knowledge and skill of a top real estate professional to help you meet your goals and find the best value.
- Use a Top Performer: who knows the current market, the neighborhoods and housing choices you are interested in purchasing. Make sure your real estate professional knows the comparables, both active and sold, in your area of interest. Ask for your agent's record: is it better-than-average year after year? Is it in the top 10% for sales? Top 5%? Be assured that your agent is an expert negotiator and has knowledge of the closing process. Be sure that their service doesn't stop with the contract.
- Know the market: values are out there, and a top real estate professional will help you find them. But don't make the mistake of thinking that sellers are "giving away" their homes or that a foreclosure sale means top quality for bottom dollar. You will need to compare each house of interest against the next, as well as assess the relative value of neighborhoods, schools, etc. In the end, your real estate professional will assist you in securing the best deal through negotiating on your behalf.
- Recognize that now is the time: the current market does present great opportunity. It is in your best interest to contact a top real estate professional today and take advantage of it!
For more information on the best housing deals in the Saint Cloud, Minnesota and the surrounding area: http://www.tamiansteve.com/ or http://www.i-94homes.com/.
