Tampa Homes,Seminole Heights homes, Riverside Heights homes, first time home buyers, Rick Fifer
Ready to Buy your First Home?
Things to keep in mind:
Many first time buyers simply call the agent on the sign they drove by. What they don't know is who that agent is representing. That agent may not be willing to help you negotiate the best deal. Talk to me about the benefit of having a Buyer's Agent.
In today's market it is important to have at a minimum a pre-qualification letter from a lender before you start your home search. In many cases, sellers will require pre-approval from your lender before accepting your offer. I can help with referrals to trusted lenders.
If you are a "first time home buyer" there are special programs offered that may be able to assist you with the down payment and closing cost based on factors such as: income, certain professions, or location of property you want to purchase.
Making an offer to purchase property, you will be expected to include an "earnest money deposit". This deposit will generally be held at a Title Company and is applied to your cost of purchasing your home. The amount of the deposit generally depends on the price of the home you are seeking to purchase.
Inspections- It is always important to have a home inspection by a qualified home inspector during the contract inspection period (typically 10 business days). When buying an older home it is my strongly suggest that you consider having an electrical system inspection by licensed electrician. A wood destroying organisms inspection(commonly thought of as a termite inspection) is strongly recommended. Another inspection you may want to consider is a Radon gas inspection.
During Hurricane season (June 1 through Nov. 30) it is important to obtain coverage early. Florida home insurance providers will suspend writing insurance whenever a Tropical storm threatens the state. If this occurs when you are set to close on your home, your closing may be delayed.
