Tips For Home Buyers

Planning on buying property in Santa Cruz County California? Here are some helpful tips for anyone who is considering purchasing a home or other real estate.

Select a Realtor

Choose a professional full time Realtor to help you with the process of purchasing your new home and be a faithful client. Be open and honest with your agent regarding your situation and your housing needs. You will then have a valuable partner to assist with your purchase. Realtors do much more than help you locate a property. Your Realtor's knowledge of the local market and the escrow process can prove invaluable!

Click the links below for an idea of the types of services I provide to my clients.

Select a Lender

Ask your family, friends or your Realtor to refer you to a good local lender

It is important to be at least pre-qualified for the financing before making an offer on a home. Submitting a pre-approval letter from you lender with the purchase offer will show the sellers that you are serious. They may even be willing to accept a lower offer from pre-approved buyers.

Here are some helpful tips to follow when looking for financing.

• If you're planning to secure financing for a home, don't buy a car or make any other large purchases. This includes anytime during the escrow period even after you have full loan approval. Wait until you have actually closed escrow to make any large purchases.

• Ask your family for help. Many first time homebuyers receive help from their families. Family members can provide a gift for all or part of the down payment and they can be a co-signer on the loan with you. Family members can co-sign with as little as 10% down payment.

• Avoid mortgage insurance. It is now possible to combine a first and second mortgage with a buyer's 10 percent down to purchase a home without mortgage insurance. Mortgage insurance is not tax deductible. Interest on a second mortgage is deductible.