Preparation

Before you start shopping for your property, it is a good idea to make some preparations.

Build Your Green File.

A green file contains all your important financial documents. You will need it to secure financing for your property. The typical green file should contain:

  • Financial statements
  • Bank accounts
  • Investments
  • Credit cards
  • Auto loans
  • Recent pay stubs
  • Tax returns for two years
  • Copies of leases for investment properties
  • 401K statements, life insurance, stocks, bonds, and mutual account information.

Check Your Credit Rating.

Your credit score will have a huge impact on what type of property you can buy, and at what price. It is first recommended to check your credit rating with an experienced lending institution so that we can determine what you can afford. The lender will research your credit ratings from the three credit reporting agencies Equifax, Experian and Trans Union. We will be happy to recommend experienced, knowledgeable lenders in the residential, construction, and commercial and investment real estate fields.

Be Careful With Your Finances.

Now is not a good time to make sudden career changes or large purchases. You want to approach your property purchase from a position of financial stability

Don’t underestimate the value of lifestyle!

When you decide to purchase a property, you are not just buying a home, you are buying a lifestyle. When you are making decisions about properties, it is important to consider the lifestyle you want.

There are some lifestyle factors that you may not even realize are important to you when you are in the home searching process. It’s often the little things in life that we cherish and appreciate!

Before you begin your home search, there are many important factors to consider. Property features are important, but it is also important to consider lifestyle. I recommend making a list of lifestyle factors that are important to you. Homeownership is also a time investment. It is easy to underestimate the value of time. It is a good idea to think about the things you enjoy doing, and consider property features that accommodate your time value.

Do you enjoy:

  • Landscaping
  • Waterfront
  • Gardening
  • Shoveling sidewalks
  • Raking leaves
  • Short commutes
  • Walkability
  • Nearby amenities
  • Extra storage
  • Privacy and quiet
  • Deed restrictions
  • Open space
  • Nature
  • Low maintenance
  • Historic character and charm

I recommend making a list of lifestyle considerations that you value so that you can find the location that will accommodate the lifestyle you want!