Throughout my career I have have always enjoyed working with first time buyers. I truly believe that home ownership is one of the cornerstones of a strong financial future and delight in helping folks lay that foundation.
I still remember buying my first home just prior to getting married. I remember how stressful that was and how, at times, I felt lost. I want to make sure that you don’t have that same lost feeling and will keep you informed each step of the way. You will know what will happen next in the process and be made aware of options you have at various points along the journey.
I believe strongly in a ‘no surprises” approach to a real estate transaction. The best way to do that is to properly set expectations and make sure the process is understood. So, the first step before looking at homes is for us to sit down together for an hour or so and go over the each step involved in a home purchase. We will review the time table, look over the sales contract and forms that will be used, discuss financing options, closing costs, cash flow and much more. Together we will develop the right strategy to get you into the home that best matches your goals and dreams.
On this page you will find a convenient spot to reference my posts and other articles specifically designed for first time buyers.
APPRAISALS
The Appraisal Process posted by Joe 1/19/13
Battling a low appraisal Washington Post 12/17/12
FIRST TIME BUYER SERIES
#1 – Should I buy or continue to rent? posted by Joe 2/29/12
# 2 – How much can I afford posted by Joe 11/20/13
CONTRACTS & FORMS
Thoughts on the new sales contract effective 1/1/12 posted by Joe 12/29/11
Washington Post Article on the New Sales Contract effective 1/1/12 From the 12/16/11 Washington Post Real Estate Section
Writing a strong contract part 1 posted by Joe 5/15/13
DISTRESS PROPERTY – FORECLOSURES, SHORT SALES ETC
Basic info on foreclosures, short sales and bankruptcy posted by Joe 12/30/11
Tales From the Front Lines – Short Sale Shorts posted by Joe 1/2/12
FINANCING
100% financing options posted by Joe on 12/9/11
FHA Fixed vs the FHA adjustable posted by Joe on 2/27/14
Great article on the mortgage process Forbes 2/2012
Why using a local lender is important posted by Joe 8/17/12
Local lenders vs large lenders round 2 posted by Joe 9/23/12
THE HOME SEARCH PROCESS
Why having your agent preview is important posted by Joe 0n 3/9/12
INSPECTIONS
Choosing a home inspector posted by Joe on 12/21/11
PRICING
Tax Assessments and Market Value posted by Joe on 2/10/12
