Buying or selling a home? Greater R.I. Properties, LLC can help.

Purchasing a home is a stressful event for many people. However, with a bit of planning ahead of time, it's not very hard. So they'll understand exactly what to expect, I'll supply buyers with an outline of the entire deal. Here are my nine steps to buying a home. Should you have questions about any of this information or if you're ready to get started, simply contact me here or e-mail me at .

Step 1 – Get ready to purchase a home
Prior to starting your home search, there are a lot of things you should contemplate. When you start your search, you'll probably want to create a list of items you need to have, get an idea of what neighborhoods and school districts you want to live in, and start working on your budget. Ensuring your mortgage payment is around 30 percent of your net monthly income is a good principle to adhere to.

Step 2 – Speak with a real estate agent in North Kingstown
This is where I can help. We'll schedule a time to get together so we can talk about why you want to buy a home and get an idea of your upcoming plans. We'll talk about the mortgage and housing industries, other economic factors that may affect your purchase today or in the future, as well as neighborhoods and schools in the North Kingstown area.

I'll also assist you with getting started on your loan. I partner with some of the finest mortgage professionals in North Kingstown, so you'll be in great hands. They will help you determine which kind of loan is best for you, as well as help you get approved.

Step 3 – Begin looking
Following our first meeting, I'll begin looking for available houses on the market that are great for you. I'll get a sneak peek of most of the houses and ignore the bad ones, and then we'll schedule appointments to tour the houses at a time that's convenient for you.

As we view the homes, I'll point out positive features and negative ones. I'll also ask you to point out what things you like and don't like. Most often, buyers change their wish list as we view houses and some items become far more crucial than others. If that's the case, I'll search the listings another time and narrow it down to the house you've been wishing for.

Step 4 – Know the housing market
An agent's knowledge of the North Kingstown housing market is a crucial aspect in your home search. And I can assure you I'm familiar with all the school districts and neighborhoods, and I can communicate which neighborhoods are "hot" and demand prompt action and some that are "cold" and allow for careful analysis.

When we tour homes, I'll let you know if the seller's list price has room for negotiation or if I believe the home is "priced to sell." Be mindful and be sure to ask lots of questions, as every real estate agent in North Kingstown will convince you they comprehend the home market. If things don't add up, just call me at 401-932-9005 or e-mail me at , and I'd be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. My market knowledge will keep you a step ahead throughout the entire deal.

Step 5 – Find the home you've been waiting for
We'll find the home of your dreams in North Kingstown, and when that happens, I'll meticulously create your purchase offer. The offer will be made to suit your needs and the home. We'll include a lot of contingencies, such as obtaining financing, carrying out the home inspection, and a clear title.

Upon presenting your offer, most likely you'll need to submit "earnest money." This is a cash deposit made to a home seller to secure the offer to buy the property and is most often applied to the closing costs. If the seller accepts the offer, we should close on the property about 30 to 60 days afterward. This allows sufficient time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate the deal
A lot of contracts don't close on the first offer, and it's very common to receive a counter offer. But don't let it discourage you. We'll talk about whether or not to consent to the counter offer, submit our own counter offer, or refuse the seller's offer and go on.

Market conditions determine how aggressively we negotiate the deal. In addition, we'll work within your budget. And when it's all said and done, we'll create a deal that is best for you.

Step 7 – Get financing
After we sign the final contract, you'll begin working with your lender to close the loan. It shouldn't take very long at all if you're pre-qualified, but you need to keep in close contact with your lender. And I'll look after all the property information your mortgage lender needs to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
Your lender will give you a Loan Estimate (LE) outlining your closing costs within three days of taking your application. You'll get a Loan Estimate (LE) outlining closing costs from your lender within three days of receiving your application. This estimate is based on the loan amount. RESPA requirements dictate that it has to contain all closing costs and fall within a precise range of accuracy, and I'll examine the estimate and let you know if it all looks good.

Then it's time to close on your home. This will most likely occur at a title company or escrow office and is often a smooth and stress-free occurrence.

Step 9 – Move in
Congratulations! Now you can move into your new home. Enjoy it. And if you have any questions, simply contact me at 401-932-9005 or e-mail me at .