I recognize that a home purchase is one of the largest financial transactions in one’s life. It is both fun and stressful. My goal is to take away as much stress as possible. The best way to do that is to keep you informed each step of the way.
When we first meet, we will spend time discussing your goals and dreams. To help guide you to the right home, I need to understand what you really want to accomplish. And this means more that just bedrooms, baths and price point. Why do you want to move? Why now? What is your best guess as to what your life will look like in 5 years? What hobbies and activities are an important part of your life or what will be important to you in a few years? Do you have lots of overnight guests? All of these questions and others are designed to help me see the world through your eyes so together we can get you the home best suited to your lifestyle. I will listen to you and then work to exceed your expectations.
On this page you will find links to topics that will help you during the buying process. But always, always feel free to give me a call with any real estate questions or concerns.
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
The Risks Involved in Flipping Homes posted by Joe 11/6/12
FINANCING
100% financing options posted by Joe on 12/30/15
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 Appraisal Process posted by Joe 1/19/13
Battling a low appraisal Washington Post 12/17/12
THE HOME BUYING PROCESS
How to take Title Why Tenants by the Entirety is a Powerful Tool posted by Joe on 7/29/15
Why having your agent preview is important posted by Joe 0n 3/9/12
What will $500,000 buy in Northern Virginia posted by Joe on 1/7/14
What will $500,00 but in Northern Virginia the 2016 version posted by Joe 5-24-16
Does An Experienced Agent make a Difference posted by Joe 4/2//15
INSPECTIONS
Choosing a home inspector posted by Joe on 12/21/11
INVESTING
Take Advantage of Market Imbalances posted by Joe 12/19/11
PRE-PURCHASE PLANNING
Moving Up or Downsizing – Sell First or Buy First? Posted by Joe 1/4/12
Timing the Real Estate Market posted by Joe 1/9/12
PRICING
Tax Assessments and Market Value posted by Joe on 2/10/12
UTILITIES
The contract states that the seller needs to keep utilities on until the day after settlement but I find many sellers make the disconnect the day of settlement. The best way to avoid service interruptions (which will then involve reconnect fees) is for buyer to switch utilities into their name the day of settlement. Call these numbers about 1 week before settlement and you should have no problem.
Electric: Dominion Power 866-366-4357
Gas: Washington Gas 703-750-1000
Water: Fairfax County Water 703-698-5800; Town of Vienna Water 703-255-6385; Arlington County Water 703-358-3636; Fairfax City Water 703-771-1092
