Buying Mistakes to Avoid

Searching without a Buying Plan

Buying a home is one of the biggest personal investments you can make. Being in control and organized will significantly contribute to getting the best deal possible with the least amount of stress. Before you can create a plan of action, meet with your eVantage Agent to lay the foundation for your decision making process.

Failing to get pre-approved

It’s imperative to get pre-approved prior to starting your home search. Your eVantage Agent can help initiate this process. Ask for a list of lenders who offer special loans and lower rates tailored to your unique situation. Avoid Internet lenders. They typically fail to fund the loan in time for your closing, or heap on "junk" fees at the last minute when it is too late to shop for a new lender.

Selecting the wrong location

Whether you’re moving-up, sizing down or relocating, you need to determine where you want to live and the best location that meets the lifestyle of your family. The most important facet of buying real estate is still Location, Location, Location! Your eVantage Agent can help you with your criteria for the best location. Here are some factors to consider:

• Type of home: single family, condo, town home, new construction, etc.
• Community amenities such as, recreation, pool, park, etc.
• Convenience for you and/or family members
• Proximity to work, school, shopping, recreation, etc.
• Crime rate of neighborhood
• Property taxes and mello-roos

Not knowing the neighborhood

It is difficult to know all the neighborhoods as well as a professional eVantage Agent who searches for homes everyday. A professional eVanatge Agent has an in-depth understanding of the various neighborhoods in your desired area which match your family’s lifestyle. Searching for the right neighborhood is the first step in the home buying process.

Failing to obtain a Comparative Market Analysis

Before making an offer to purchase your special home, you must have a accurate idea of the market value to ensure you do not overpay. Your eVanatge Agent will prepare a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) showing competitive properties, what similar homes have recently sold for and the recent price trends. This is the same type of report the seller receives when deciding on an asking price. Isn’t it important for you to have access to the same information as the seller?

Failing to use effective negotiating skills and strategies

Many buyers think that the best way to achieve a fair purchase price is by offering low. This is the strategy of an inexperienced buyer who is not in possession of all the facts necessary to negotiating the best possible deal. Creative negotiating usually means a better deal with minimum hassles. Your eVantage Agent indicates how offers are presented to the seller to increase the likelihood of obtaining the chosen property with the most favorable terms.

Missing the great deal

Don't miss the best deal available in the marketplace today! If you find the perfect home that meets the majority of your needs, do not hesitate. What is available today may not be available tomorrow. If you follow an action plan, you can make a safe decision and a reasonable offer.

Failing to have the home inspected

Making an offer on a property is usually made after spending an hour or so of viewing the home. Isn't it worth ensuring you will not be surprised later with issues costing thousands? Your eVantage Agent can recommend reputable home inspectors and will ensure your best interests are protected. If the inspection report does not meet your approval, you have the option to negotiate the items in question or terminate the contract and have your earnest money deposit returned.

Buying a Home without a Warranty

After you have made your down payment, covered your closing costs, paid for your move and all the accompanying expenses associated with a new home, the last thing you need is a costly repair. If the property your purchase does not include a Home Warranty your eVantage Agent can request that the seller provide one in the negotiations.

Searching and Buying without an eVantage Agent

eVantage Agents are committed to using their experience gained through hundreds of successful negotiations and closings. Commissions are paid by the sellers, and your eVantage Agent negotiates the best deal for YOU! Many times, buyers avoid using the services of a eVantage Agent under the misguided belief that it costs them more money - or that they can negotiate a better deal directly with the seller. False! You need a professional who looks out for your best interests. Considering the importance of your home purchase, do-it-yourself can be an expensive mistake. eVantage Agents have better information and valuable knowledge to help you get the best possible deal. Use it to your advantage.