5. Make an Offer
Now that you and your real estate agent have found the home you would like to purchase, it's time to make an offer. Taking into account the recent sales of homes in that neighborhood which are similar in size, quality, conveniences, and amenities, what are you willing to pay for the home? Your real estate agent will consult with you and advise you on how to create an offer that will have the best chance of being accepted.Your agent will ensure that you have everything down in written form... no verbal agreements. After consulting with your agent to put your offer in a written contract that meets all the legal requirements according to local and national guidelines, your agent will present the seller with a written document detailing what needs to be done by both parties to execute the transaction. The contract should protect the best interests of all parties involved and should be comprehensive in nature. Your agent will also ensure your financial position as the buyer by including any necessary contingencies, which would protect you if a particular requirement were not met. Once the seller accepts it, it may be too late to make any changes.
The contract, though not limited to this list, should include
the following:
· A legal description of the property
· The offering price
· The down payment
· Financing arrangements
· A list of fees and who will pay them
· Amount of the deposit
· Inspection rights and possible repair allowances
· The method of conveying the title and who will
handle the closing
· A list of appliances and furnishings which will
stay with the home
· The settlement date
· Any relevant contingencies
Remember that the legalities of this phase are very important. If you have any questions or concerns, they need to be addressed right away. After all, no one has ever said at their closing, "I wish I had asked fewer questions."
What’s a Home Warranty?
A home warranty is a service contract, normally for one year, which helps protect home owners against the cost of unexpected covered repairs or replacement on their major systems and appliances that break down due to normal wear and tear. Coverage is for systems and appliances in good working order at the start of the contract. Ask your real estate agent if you should ask the Seller to pay for a home warranty for your new home at closing.
Check your home warranty policy to see which of the following items are covered. Also find out if the policy covers the full replacement cost of an item.
• Plumbing
• Electrical systems
• Furnace
• Water heater
• Heating ducts
• Water pump
• Dishwasher
• Garbage disposal
• Stove/cooktop/ovens
• Microwave
• Refrigerator
• Washer/dryer
• Swimming pool (may be optional)
Source: American Home Shield, www.ahswarranty.com, REALTOR® Benefits Partner