Stop, look, and listen if you would like to be both penny-wise and dollar-rich. If 2010 tax credit buyer behavior mimics the 2009 tax credit buyer behavior, we have three money-saving tips for 2010 buyers and sellers.
Stop and take note of the current interest rates. Take the time to get pre-approved today; know your payment comfort zone, and expect rates to creep up by mid-year. Your payment comfort zone will determine what homes you want to tour. Looking at homes above your comfort zone usually leads to a series of disappointing negotiations and the loss of vital time.
Look at as many homes as possible in your payment comfort zone; learn the market firsthand until you know what a real value looks like. Do no procrastinate; set aside plenty of time to tour homes; start today, and do not delay.
Listen to your Realtor, lender and inspector; they are your hired experts. An experienced Realtor will serve as your guide during the home search, provide you with up-to-date market data, execute negotiation strategies on your behalf, and represent your interests throughout the process. An informed lender will know the direction of the interest rates, the innuendos of various loan options, and will be able to advise you accordingly. A thorough home inspector will be able to highlight problems and items of necessary maintenance.
In short, stop what you are doing and meet with your lender; look at homes in your payment comfort zone; and listen to your hired experts. These simple tips will save and make you money.
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Tami DeLand and Steve HansenSaint Cloud and Central Minnesota REALTORS
Coldwell Banker Burnet
(320) 258-6675
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St. Cloud Real Estate, Condos, Homes for SaleCentral Minnesota Real Estate---
