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The question is always, "Is this the best I can do? Is there
a better house, or a better price, or both?" I’ll keep you informed
about the market climate so you know a good thing when you see
it. And I'll help you make the right offer to get the home you
really want.
The tighter the market, the more important it is to have your
financing approved before making that offer. So I'll help you
take care of the things you need to do, in the right order, to
put you in the best position possible.
Tips to finding the right house
- Establish the price you can afford and the kind of house you
want.
- Find the general location or neighborhood you want to be in
and the things you want.
- Take your time and visit as many houses as possible.
- Check all important sources of information such as people
at work, community organizations, schools, and neighborhood
residents.
- Be thorough. Inspect the house both during the day and night.
- If there's something you don't know about or can't understand,
make sure to ask.
Choosing the right house
- A house is a major financial investment. Be prepared for the
down payment, closing costs and move-in expenses in addition
to your regular mortgage payment and monthly expenses.
- You may live in your house a long time, so make sure you and
your family are happy with the choice. Also, be prepared for
the costs of owning your own home, such as taxes, utility bills,
insurance, and maintenance.
- You have to maintain the house so that it's kept in prime
condition. Some repairs may need an expert.
Choosing the right neighborhood is an important part of buying
a house.
- The price you pay for a house is influenced by the quality
of the neighborhood in which it's located.
- The value of other houses in the area
- The quality of schools and other public services
- The appearance of the neighborhood (parks, trees, landscaping)
- Are there active community groups that are working to maintain
or improve the neighborhood?
- The absence of crime, vandalism, litter, noise or other
problems
Research different Minneapolis neighborhoods at this web site:
www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/citywork/police/stats/codefor/index.asp
- The location of the house determines whether you will be close
to the things you want or need.
- Present or future job
- Good schools, shopping, medical facilities
- Convenient public transportation
- Child-care facilities
- Other neighborhood services
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