Helpful Real Estate Advice for Tuesday, August 8th, 2006

Helful Assistance - Using a REALTOR.

A REALTOR Can Save You Time.
When you begin your search, it's always good to know the amount of your borrowing power. By doing so, you won't waste precious time looking at homes that are over or below your price range. A REALTOR can get you started in the buying process by helping you determine your buying power: your financial reserves and your borrowing capacity. A REALTOR can refer you to lenders that are best qualified to meet your financial needs.

A REALTOR Knows The Area.
Once you know how much you can and want to invest in a new home, the next step is to determine where you want to live. If you're unfamiliar with the geographic areas, the schools and other pertinent information, a REALTOR can help you narrow and focus your search. A REALTOR has access to information about schools, recreation, taxes, utilities, zoning and other specific details that are important in your home buying decisions.

A REALTOR Has Access To The Largest Number of Available Properties.
A REALTOR has the ability to identify and show you the largest number of homes that most closely match your price, size and location criteria.

A REALTOR Has The Experience To Ease You Through The Buying Process.
There are still a lot of details to care of once you find your perfect home. A REALTOR can help you write the Purchase Agreement, arrange for approppriate inspections (if necessary), assist you with any contingencies and help with finance arrangements. When it's time to close, the REALTOR will let you know what to expect.

A REALTOR Knows Local Closing or Settlement Processes.
Closings - or settlements, as it is known in some parts of the country - vary from state to state. Every area has its own unique customs. In same areas, the title or escrow company handles the whole process. In other parts of the country, an attorney does everything. Your REALTOR knows how it is handled in your area and will guide you smoothly through the process.

Buyer's Agents.
One practice that is becoming more common is using a Buyer's Agent. A Buyer's Agent works exclusively for the buyer-not the seller-ensuring that they willl negotiate on your behalf to get you the lowest price on the best home. Since these professionals work exclusively for the buyer, they are compensated regardless of how the buyer finds the home. Homebuyers who use Buyer's Agents believe that compensation is a small price to pay for the value of having a professional dedicated exclusively to looking out for their best interests.

Welcome to your new home!

~Tina Jan~
Coldwell Banker Kivett-Teeters
1655 E. Sixth St.
Beaumont, CA 92223
Work: 951-845-5520 Ext. 105
Fax: 951-845-4916
Cell: 909-446-2666
Toll-Free: 1-877-TINAJAN
tina.jan@coldwellbanker.com
www.tinajan.com