I Want to Buy a Home!

Buying a home is one of the most significant financial transactions in your life. Once you have made the decision to buy a home, all the decisions can be very confusing. To ensure a successful experience, you will want to consult an expert in residential real estate—Judy Simmons can find a home that is just right for you!

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Here are some answers to common questions:

  • What is a real estate buyer's agent?
  • What are the benefits of using a buyers' agent?
  • How do I negotiate with sellers?
       Buying a home is one of the most important purchases most people will make. In order to make the right decisions the first time, potential buyers need to be prepared. Consider the following before starting negotiations:

    Be Prepared
       Research the housing market in the target area. Once you have information about the general area, focus on the particular property and seller. Look for answers to questions such as:
    1. Why is the homeowner selling? (If they're moving because they find the area undesirable, you might as well.)
    2. How long has the home been on the market? (If it has been on the market for a long time, perhaps there are negative facts about the property that you need to know.)
    3. How much did the seller pay for the home compared to the current asking price? (If the seller paid more, find out why. Was it a general real estate trend, or did property values in that particular neighborhood go down?)
    4. What is the seller's time frame for selling and moving? Does it fit with your needs?
    5. Are there any defects in the home or problems with the surrounding neighborhood? (For example, is the roof so old that it will likely leak during the next storm? Is there a new construction project in the area that will lead to major traffic congestion?)
       As the potential buyer, you want the advantage. While you want answers to all your questions to the seller, reveal very little about your circumstances. Do not give the seller personal information such as your income, the maximum you're able to pay for a down payment or the home, or when you want to move. Make sure that your agent knows not to reveal any such information to the seller or his/her agent.
       Also, don't let the seller see how much you want the property. If you appear desperate, the seller then has the stronger bargaining position. When meeting with the seller or listing agent, keep your emotions in check.

    Establish a Timeline
        Find out if the seller needs to have the sale closed sooner rather than later. If the seller is feeling pressured to sell, use that to your advantage in negotiating. Even if you, the buyer, are the one with the deadline for purchasing a home, don't let yourself be rushed into making concessions or a purchase you may regret later.

  • This is my first house. What else do I need to be thinking about?
  • How can I finance my new home?

More information about the Charlotte area:

Some other ways we can help:

Wonderfully renovated home on quiet street in Midwood! This complete rehab includes hardwood floors throughout w/custom tile work in baths, custom cabinets with granite tops & stainless appliances,large master retreat w/huge shower & body sprayers and walk-in closet, updated plumbing & electrical. All stainless Whirlpool appliances convey! Homes next door to be renovated soon! MLS 755534 $257,000 Spectacular unit/10ft. ceilings. Beautiful kitchen with granite and stainless appliances. Baths also have granite. Spacious rooms/abundant closet space. Wonderful terrace with gas log fireplace and gas grill.2 reserved gated garage parking spaces. Large storage unit also included. Motivated seller! MLS 756847 Listed at $489,900 A custom designed re-hab in heart of Midwood on beautiful corner lot.The relaxing front porch greets you as you enter the two story foyer w/beautiful craftsman stairs & archways.Features vaulted gr w/gas logs,hardwoods thruout,heavy molding,main floor 2nd master & laundry.Chefs kit w/stainless,granite,stone,& custom cabinets w/bar.Upstairs features loft & master retreat. One of a kind! MLS 747226 $487,000