Rates are low and inventory is strong, so now is a great time to purchase a home.
The Fredericksburg region has experienced a healthy real estate market this year, and there are many opportunities for a buyer to take advantage of all of the great benefits of home ownership. Do you understand these benefits and know how to take that first step to get started? Are you currently renting? Have you investigated to see if now might be the time to start your journey to owning a home?
Imagine owning a home that you are free to create the environment you want to live in, without having to ask for permission to paint or make changes. No longer do you have to ask if it’s okay to own a new family pet or make improvements to someone else’s investment. You can experience financial benefits of certain tax deductions, building equity, creating strong credit and hopefully by making a good investment. Gone will be the days of waiting for the landlord to make repairs, and paying down someone else’s mortgage.
Making a good investment is one of the most important reasons why it’s essential to work with a realtor who is representing YOU. A buyer’s agent is paid by the seller of the home. Many consumers assume it is best to call the listing agent of the home they are interested in, but that agent represents the seller and is answering questions on their behalf. You as a buyer should have independent representation where your interests are first and foremost, and where you can obtain advice on the benefits and risks of owning certain types of properties.
There are many ways to find an experienced and successful agent. Many consumers are able to obtain referrals from trusted members of their sphere. Reviews have become paramount in the real estate industry and you can do great research on Zillow, Trulia and on agents’ personal websites.
Picking the right agent can mean whether or not you secure the home you want. Many consumers do not think a buyer’s agent is as important as a listing agent, but that is absolutely not the case.
A poor buyer’s agent can work too slow and cause you to miss out on the house of your dreams. They can allow you to offer too much, not negotiate strong terms such as closing costs, home warranties, important closing dates and other terms that are vital to making sure your new home is sound and a good investment. They might not understand the importance of extra, more unusual inspections that can be requested for your protection, or significant contract language that can be added to contracts. If you find yourself in a competitive contract situation, they might not have the tools or experience to counsel you to make sure you are the one that comes out on top.
A great buyer’s agent will sit down with you and discuss your goals. What style home do you want? What amenities are important? How long do you plan to stay in this home? What are your best financing options? They will explain what to expect and then help you get pre-approved. They will act quickly on home showing requests and will walk you through each step of the process. They will strongly negotiate on your behalf and be a student of the contract.
When all of this happens, you will have a wonderful experience and can successfully close on your new home and begin the next step of your life’s journey. This investment will hopefully be a foundation for you and your family, and will provide you with happiness and security for years to come.
Amy Cherry Taylor
Realtor, Associate Broker
Amy Cherry Taylor & Associates
Avery Hess Realtors
774 Warrenton Road
Fredericksburg, VA 22406
c:703-577-0135
o:540-373-9300
f: 540-373-0455
Customer Service Line M-F 9 a.m. -3 p.m.: 540-632-2824
www.AmyCherryTaylor.com
www.facebook.com/amycherrytaylor
Text “AMY1” to 87778 or visit app.averyhess.com/AMY1 to download my Real Estate Search App to your smartphone
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