Buying information for the Methow Valley Real Estate area.

Buying real estate can be a tough and slow process sometimes. But it can be fun and exciting if done right and if you are well prepared. Start her for some great tips on how to stay on top of the process and not get any surprises down the road.

• Get pre-approved

Before you can look at Winthrop real estate you will need to know how much you can comfortably afford to spend on a home. Sit down with a lender and go over all your finances and determine a good starting number. The lender will also tell you if you just can't afford a home right now and a good lender will give you some goals to work towards to get on the right track toward home ownership. This also show the seller you are a serious buyer that has already done your homework.

• Determine exaclty what type of home you want.

This might sound simple but really think about what you need in a home and what you can live without. Make a list of the basic items such as square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms and any special amenities. And then think about the layout. Are you looking for a kitchen window that looks into the back yard to watch your kids? Do you need a fenced back yard? How about RV parking or a longer driveway. Some of these issues don't crop up until you actually live in a home so its a good idea to start a list a few months before you look into homes.

• Visit open houses so you know the market.

Of course your Coldwell Banker agent can show you around but get a good feel for what is out there right now. There is an abundance of homes on the market and so many are going for below market value. Now is a great time to jump on the home ownership wagon. Also get a feel for the cost of homes in your price range. If you look at just a couple you may think they all are like that in that range but you might be surprised to find a diamond in the rough by starting your search early.

• Don't make any big purchases between now and after your home closes.

You don't want anything to affect your credit negitively at this point so be careful as to how you spend. You will also need to keep spare cash handy for out of pocket expenses like closing costs and home inspections. (my Alamogordo real estate affiliate has an excellent article on home inspections)

• Speaking of home inspections; DO NOT neglect to get one!

So many home buyers think that they would buy the home regardless of the outcome of an inspection so why get one? Even if you love the home and would buy it anyhow, the reason for the inspection is to point out any issues you may have now AND in the future. It is a great way to learn more about your biggest investment. Remember, you will probably spend more on this one purchase than any other so you should know all you can about it. It is also a great way to start a savings process for future purchases such as a roof or furnace.

• Time to get home owners insurance

During the time after the negotiations are complete and before the actual closing you will need to shop for home owner's insurance. You will want to make sure your home is covered in case of fire or theft and depending on where you are you may consider flood or earthquake damage as well. This payment can often be built into your monthly mortgage payment or be paid annually or bi-annually. (Visit my Las Vegas real estate connection for more information on title and insurance.)

Remember, buying a home can be fun and exciting when you are educated with the proceedings and are aware of all the steps. We would love to help find your Winthrop or Methow Valley real estate today! You can start your search here or get in touch with one of our agents for references on lenders and any other resources needed for the transaction.

ADDITIONAL REAL ESTATE SOURCES:  For more on Seattle property management and leasing please visit my website. I offer complete details of my services and terms for property concierge leasing and management throughout the Puget Sound region.  Chase concierge leasing is your personal property management service.   Beryl Gosney serving Snohomish County Real Estate and all of naval station Everett. Being a Veterans Real Estate professional I'm here to find you a home in Everett WA Real Estate. Your Veterans Administration Real Estate Pro.