Lynette Selby Lynette Selby

Tips for Buying a Home Sight Unseen: How to Make the Process Manageable

Buying a home sight unseen? Find a trustworthy realtor who can provide virtual tours and vet properties for you. Involve a trusted friend to visit homes on your behalf. Stay positive and expect the unexpected. With the right support, you can find your dream home without physically seeing it.

Are you considering purchasing a home without seeing it in person first? While this may seem like a daunting task, it is becoming more and more common for buyers to purchase homes sight unseen. This can be due to a variety of reasons such as moving to a new state or city or not having the time to view homes before the move. Whatever your situation may be, there are ways to make the process more manageable.

The first step is to find a realtor in the area that you can trust. Let them know your situation and that you will need their help to vet potential properties for you. A good realtor will be able to provide you with virtual tours or schedule a call with you via FaceTime or another video app. This will help you feel like you are there in person and give you the chance to ask your realtor about any potential issues that may pose a problem in the future. You will also be able to see any features that you love, which will help you make your final decision.

Another great option is to have a family member or friend who lives in the area stop by a few open houses or take a tour with your realtor of any homes that you are interested in. It's a great idea to involve someone that you know and trust, to help spot any red flags or deal-breakers you should be made aware of before signing on the dotted line.

When the time comes for you to move in, be prepared for the unexpected. There will always be a few things that you didn't expect when you've purchased a home unseen. However, make the best out of the situation and stay positive. It really is possible to find your dream home, even if you can't see it before closing.

As a real estate agent, I have worked with several clients who have purchased homes sight unseen, and in each transaction, everything worked out very well. While there were definitely times when stress levels were high, I kept my buyers in the loop throughout the entire transaction. It is so important to make sure you have the right agent in your corner to represent you when purchasing a home, but especially when you are purchasing a home sight unseen.

In summary, purchasing a home sight unseen may seem overwhelming, but with the right preparation and a trustworthy realtor by your side, it can be a smooth and successful process. Remember to involve someone you trust to help you spot any potential issues and keep a positive mindset throughout the process. You never know, your dream home could be waiting for you just around the corner.

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Lynette Selby Lynette Selby

Top 9 Questions Home Buyers Ask - Everything You Need to Know

Buying a new home can be both exciting and overwhelming, and it’s natural to have questions about the process. As a real estate agent, I’ve helped many first-time homebuyers navigate the process, and I’ve noticed that there are certain questions that come up again and again. In this article, I’ll answer the top nine questions that homebuyers ask, so you can feel more confident and informed as you embark on your home buying journey.

Buying a home can be a daunting experience, especially for first-time buyers. In this blog post, we'll cover the top 9 questions that many home buyers ask. From getting started to receiving the keys, we'll provide detailed answers to each question to help you navigate the home-buying process with confidence.

  1. How do I get started?

    The first step in buying a home is getting pre-approved by a lender. This will give you an idea of how much home you can afford and whether you qualify for a mortgage.

  2. How long does it take to close on a home?

    On average, it takes about 30-45 days to close on a home. This timeframe can vary depending on the complexity of the transaction and other factors.

  3. What does my agent do?

    A buyer's agent will negotiate on your behalf and manage the closing process from start to finish. They will help you find homes that meet your criteria and guide you through the offer and negotiation process.

  4. How much do I pay for a buyer's agent?

    You don't have to pay anything for a buyer's agent. The seller's agent shares their commission with the buyer's agent. In Greensboro, the commission rate is typically 6% of the purchase price, which is split between the two agents.

  5. What credit score do I need to qualify for a mortgage?

    Most home loan programs require a minimum FICO score of 620. It's best to speak with a lender to determine your specific requirements and options.

  6. How much money do I need for a down payment?

    The down payment required varies depending on the type of loan you choose. Some loans, like VA and USDA loans, don't require a down payment. Others start as low as 3.5% down. Your lender can provide you with more information on all available options.

  7. What other fees will I need to pay?

    In addition to the down payment, you'll need to pay closing costs, which typically range from 2-4% of the purchase price. Other fees may include inspection fees and loan origination fees.

  8. When will I receive the keys?

    You'll receive the keys to your new home once the closing has been recorded with the register of deeds, which typically happens on the same day as closing.

  9. What's the best advice for home buyers?

    Hire a knowledgeable real estate agent that you trust and ask lots of questions! A good agent will guide you through the entire process and ensure that you make the best decision for your needs.

Buying a home can be overwhelming, but by understanding the top 9 questions that many home buyers ask, you'll be better prepared to navigate the process. Remember to work with a trusted agent and lender, ask lots of questions, and take your time to find the perfect home for you.

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