Choosing to buy a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your life. It’s a complex ordeal that requires a lot of planning, and instating the help of a knowledgeable real estate agent like Stirling will make the process so much easier. To help prepare you for this, here is a general overview of what to expect.
Get Your Finances In Order
The first thing you’ll need to do is put money aside for a down payment. This amount is (at minimum) 5% of the purchase price of the home you’re planning to buy. Second, you’ll need to meet with a mortgage broker to determine what you can afford. Shopping around for the best rate is highly recommended.
Visualize Your Dream Home
Once you’ve established a price range, it’s time to decide what type of home will best suit your lifestyle. Think about things like access to schools, recreational facilities, what the neighbourhood is like, and so on. Why you’re choosing to buy should help answer these questions for you — so think about it carefully.
Meet With a Real Estate Agent
It’s important to partner with a real estate agent you feel completely comfortable with. A real estate agent like Stirling can help you find your dream home, that meets both your needs and your budget. They will set you up with viewing appointments, and also help bring clarity to the complicated process of buying a home. There are other advantages to this as well, such as the sellers usually pay the fees for a buying agent. Buyers essentially get all the experience of working with Stirling and his team for free!
The Search
Using the property search on this site and consulting with your real estate agent, you will be able to find homes in your desired area. Stirling and the team will update you frequently regarding new listings and schedule you appointments with sellers. They can work with you to help you find the best place for your lifestyle and budget.
Closing
Your real estate agent can help you place an offer that the seller will either accept, counter, or reject. After you’ve negotiated an offer, you’ll need to conduct a home inspection and deal with any repairs (the cost of which you can also negotiate with the seller). Finalize your mortgage with a visit to your lender, and you’re ready to sign off on ownership. This typically takes place in a lawyer’s office.
At this point, congratulations are in order! Becoming a new homeowner is one of the most liberating things you’ll ever experience. There are many benefits to home ownership — pride of ownership, the ability to make home improvements, building equity, appreciation — the list goes on.
Stirling excels at helping his clients determine what their needs are, and then helping them to find the best possible property to suit their needs. Are you trying to find a home close to the best schools for your kids, from elementary to university? Are you looking to sell your starter home and move into your dream home, or dream neighbourhood? Is living by a dog park important for you and your furry friends? Stirling has lived his entire life in Calgary, and he will do everything he can to find you the perfect home.
