If you're shopping for a new home, there are several things you can do to ensure that the process goes smoothly. Start by figuring out what you can afford to buy (our calculator will help). Then get preapproved for a loan. And consider enlisting the help of a buyer's agent. The May 2010 issue of Kiplinger's Personal Finance has tips on finding the right one:
Think of a buyer's agent as a matchmaker who will introduce you to prospects you might otherwise have missed, help find the best home for you, and protect your interests.
Look for agents who have earned the Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR) credential (visit www.rebac.net) or who belong to the National Association of Exclusive Buyer Agents (www.naeba.org), whose companies don't take listings from sellers. Interview agents for a good fit. The best ones will interview you, too, to scope out what you really want and put together a package of homes.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
An agent may ask you to sign a buyer's broker agreement, which outlines your rights and responsibilities to each other. Although agents may ask for a term of 90 days, you can negotiate a shorter one. Don't sign if agents won't agree upfront that they will end the relationship if it isn't working.
To learn more about what steps you should take before and during your home search, see Shop Smart.
-
Donating Complex Assets Doesn't Have to Be ComplicatedIf you're looking to donate less-conventional assets but don't know where to start, this charity executive has answers, such as considering a donor-advised fund (DAF) for its tax benefits and ease of use.
-
Travel trends you can expect this summerThe Kiplinger Letter Domestic trips will trump foreign travel amid economic uncertainties, though some costs are down.
-
3 Tips to Update Your Bathroom for Lessreal estate The time of year, where you shop, and how you design can all affect your remodel costs.
-
Trim Your Mortgage Rate With a 'Nonbank'real estate Online lenders could help you cut your expenses.
-
Seven Reasons Your House Is Still on the Marketreal estate You stuck a for-sale sign in the front yard but the offers aren’t rolling in. Here’s why.
-
5 Reasons You Hate Your Homeowners Associationreal estate You want the property, you sign on with an HOA and bear the consequences.
-
Scam Alerts: Beware Unattended ATMs, Down-Payment FraudScams Fresh hustles and cons you need to avoid.
-
Worst Things to Buy at Memorial Day SalesSmart Buying Good deals can be found over the long holiday weekend – just not on what you’d expect.
-
3 Strategies to Remodel Your Kitchen for Lessreal estate What to do about everything from buying cabinets and appliances to scoring discounts.
-
How to Get a Refund on Your Water Bill If You Have a Leakreal estate Refunds for water leaks are available from municipalities if you report and fix the problem.
