BUYER TIPS
When looking at homes, Harold will arrange all appointments. He understands there are times when you just want to drive around and get a “feel” of the neighbourhood. Should you go into an open-house or New Home Sales office without your REALTOR®, you may jeopardize your representation and may obligate yourself to additional out-of-pocket fees. Should a model home or open-house look so good that you just have to go in, tell the Seller’s REALTOR® or the New Home Sales Representative up front that you are working with Harold. Do not sign anything at a New Home Sales office, as by doing so may designate you as a client of the builder and Harold may not be allowed to represent you.
Most REALTORS® will respect and honour your right to independent representation, and will ask that you contact Harold immediately. It is always unwise to sign anything for a builder at a New Home Sales office or another REALTOR® at an open house without consulting Harold first.
New Home Builders
Harold works with New Home Builders throughout the city and will assist you in negotiating your offer with them. New Home Builders encourage REALTORS® to bring their Buyers to their developments and will pay normal co-op and buyer-brokerage fees. You, the Buyer, will pay no more by using a REALTOR® to buy a New Home, and you do want a REALTOR® who represents you rather than a sales representative who represents the Seller/Builder.
Resale Homes or For Sale By Owners
Resale homes or for sale by owner, have Harold represent you. Harold, a highly trained professional, is a practicing buyer agent and is known for his excellent negotiating skills and his efficient service to his clients.
Harold will:
- Explain agency relationship to you and how he will work together with you. After a Buyer Agency is established, you are ensured a professional is there to support and guide you through your home purchase.
- Provide an automatic listing service based on the criteria you provide. Listings will then be forwarded to your email as soon as they are entered into the Real Estate Board MLS system.
- Show you any home within the Ottawa region, regardless of which REALTOR has the home listed for sale.
- Provide information and market analysis on the property you select.
- Disclose all know facts and defects about the property that are known to the REALTOR®.
- Explain the offer process and recommend conditional clauses to protect your interests.
- Draft the offer in your best interest.
- Provide a list of professionals such as building inspectors, lawyers, and mortgage brokers.
- Forward all documents to your financial institution, lawyer etc.
- Keep in touch with regular follow-up.
BUYERS TIPS
Step 1. Find a Local Lender You Can Talk To in Person
Local lenders understand your market and know of loan programs that might be beneficial to you.
Check with your lender on any local programs that might help with closing costs. Even though the media may pronounce the 100-percent-financing option dead, this is not always the case. Check it out for yourself and then get preapproved for a loan so you know how much house you're able to buy.
Step 2. Be Specific in the Area You Want To Live
Educate yourself. Familiarize yourself with the neighbourhoods you’re interested in, the taxes and school districts. This helps you narrow down your search when you need to move fast, and also helps you figure out potential mortgage payments.
Step 3. Find an Agent Specializing in the Area You Want to Live
Once you have decided on the area(s) you want to live in, call Harold. If he is not familiar or sufficiently knowledgeable about an area he will inform you. He will make suggestions regarding other qualified REALTORS® who he feels are specialists in the area you prefer and who can thus better serve you.
Step 4. Don't Shy Away From Houses That Need Some Work
Just because a house needs some paint or cosmetic fixes does not mean it is not a good buy, or that it is not the home for you. Harold has a contact list of trusted professionals who may work with you to fix up your new home. At times the cost of renovations can be included in your mortgage. Harold, a former custom home builder and renovator, has extensive knowledge about the types of repairs a home may need, their severity, renovation costs, and whether you should consider the home or keep on looking. Ask Harold your RE/MAX REALTOR®. He is a valuable resource.
Step 5. Be Prepared To Act
Sometimes the first home you see is the right one for you. Don't discount it. Remember, good deals still go fast. Take advantage of the electronic tools and information that Harold has to offer.
Are you considering buying a new home?
Fill out the form below, and I’ll let you know when a home matching your criteria is available.
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RE/MAX Hallmark Realty Group
Unit# 101 - 2255 Carling Avenue
Ottawa, ON, K2B 7Z5
Office: 613-596-5353
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