Buying Tips

1. If you are not working with an experienced realtor find one.

2. To determine a fair price, ask for comparable sales from the last twelve months and look at current listings.

3. Learn what you can about the seller: motivation for selling, needs, goals.

4. If you are trying to decide between two or three properties and you have a price threshold, make an offer on your favorite first. Their good timing pleasantly surprises many buyers.

5. Know exactly what you are getting and make sure your contract states it. Many people do not realize items not mentioned in the purchase agreement may not be included (this includes items mentioned in the listing).

6. Agree on a closing date in your offer.

7. Make sure you have a final walk through within 24 hours of closing.

8. If you are purchasing property, make offer subject to satisfactory boundary survey.

9. Ask for a home inspection.

10. Many sellers will pay for a Home Warranty if they are asked.

11. Ask for an updated Seller's Disclosure Statement when you make your offer.

12. In your offer, mention how the home will be left (i.e. broom swept).

13. Agree on occupancy, date and time. Even if occupancy is at closing, include a high rental fee if seller is not out on time.

14. If you are purchasing land, ask about mineral rights, land splits, leases, hunting rights, etc.

15. Very Important: If you are financing your purchase, offer is contingent upon satisfactory financing and appraisal, and mortgage being funded not just a mortgage commitment being obtained.

16. If the property belongs to a Home Owners Association, ask for by-laws, financials, last 12 months correspondence with Board of Directors/Association Manager/Legal Firm/Accountant, ask about upcoming
meetings, special assessments.

17. Mention in your offer that the seller may not lease the property once offer is signed.

18. If the property is in a rental program and you do not want any additional rentals, make sure the seller notifies the management company of your wishes and request an itemized list of rentals already booked the day the offer is accepted.

19. If the property is vacant or needs a lot of work ask for unlimited or reasonable access to the property.

20. Have your offer reviewed by an attorney prior to submission.

Negotiating Tips...