Buying a new home is an exciting, and stressful, time. Small disappointments, like an undisclosed leak or a broken power outlet cause frustration and cost money to fix. To help avoid pitfalls like these it helps to have a REALTOR® on your side, and follow these 3 rules.

 

1. Hire a certified home inspector

 

You may be tempted to skip this step, since it can seem to be costly and unnecessary. However, it can save you money in the long run. By hiring a qualified, independent inspector you can accurately verify information provided by the seller and their agent. Knowing things such as what items need to be repaired, what items have been recently repaired are important for determining the accurate worth of a home. 

 

2. Get it in writing

 

Ask the seller and their agent to provide you with written copies of documentation regarding any repairs the property requires. This is called a Property Condition Disclosure Statement, and is designed to protect both the seller and the buyer by documenting what information has been disclosed by the seller. 

 

3. Be thorough and vigilant

 

Purchasing a home is a huge investment, so make sure you do your homework and thoroughly investigate any properties you are considering purchasing. A little extra work now could end up saving you thousands of dollars in surprise repairs down the road. 

 

Hiring a REALTOR® is an excellent way to ensure that the home you purchase meets your needs and that you pay a fair and accurate price for it. Having a good REALTOR® means you get to benefit from their extensive experience and expert knowledge.