lynn.sharer@lnf.com.>

The home buying process can be a bit stressful for first time buyers. The Bucks County first time home buyer information below may help. Real estate is a big investment and buyers should enter with as much information as possible.

Preparing to Buy in Bucks County

Find a Bucks County Mortgage Company & Get Pre-approved

Interview a few local mortgage companies and obtain pre-approvals. The programs and options can vary from one company to another. Compare their options and closing costs to figure out the best provider.  Get estimates on closing costs and monthly expenses. This will also determine the types of homes you will be seeing in Bucks County.  Your Real Estate agent can guide you through this process.

Find a Real Estate Expert

Find a real estate agent in Bucks County to guide you through the home buying process. Evaluate several agents and pick one that best understands your needs. Experienced brokers can help you narrow down options, prepare contracts, and facilitate a smooth transaction.  This expertise will be essential to Bucks County first time buyers.

During the Purchasing Process

Real Estate Showings

Only consider real estate within your budget. This avoids the heartbreak of wanting a home that you cannot purchase. Seeing homes can take significant time and energy, so sticking to your range will also save valuable time.

Contracts

Real estate agents can offer tips on contracts and negotiating them, but they can not practice law. Ask about using a Bucks County real estate attorney to interpret legal jargon and add any necessary language. Do not sign any documents that you do not fully understand.

Inspections

Inspections are not an opportunity to renegotiate price. Also avoid negotiating obvious problems. Such strategies often fail and lead you to lose the money spent on the inspection. Sellers have the option to repair problems, offer a credit towards closing costs, or refuse to do nothing at all. Reasonable requests are more likely to be accepted.

Final Walk-Thru

Prior to the closing, you normally have an opportunity to walk thru the property one more time. Try and schedule this for after the seller has removed their property. Resolve any problems before signing closing paperwork as completing the closing implies your acceptance of the home and its current condition.

The Closing

Be sure to bring proper identification to the closing. Closing costs and down payment money must be in the form of a certified check or money order. Also bring your checkbook for any last minute adjustments. Once the closing paperwork is filed, the home will be yours!

Advanced Bucks County First Time Home Buyer Information

The home buying process will be much less intimidating with some advanced preparation and knowledge. For additional Bucks County first time home buyer information, contact Lynn Sharer at Long & Foster Real Estate by calling 215-272-0486 or by emailing