Buying a home is an exciting and complex adventure. It can also be a very time-consuming and costly one if you're not familiar with all aspects of the process, and don't have all the best information and resources at hand.
One of my specialties is representing the best interests of Warren and McKean area buyers throughout the home buying process. My comprehensive, high-quality services can save you time and money, as well as make the experience more enjoyable and less stressful.
If you're like most people, buying a home is the biggest investment you will ever make. So whether you're buying a starter home, your dream home or an investment property, why not take advantage of my experience as a local market expert for Warren to make the most informed decisions you can, every step of the way?
Here is the best steps to finding a home
First, go into our local MLS website www.northwestpahomes.com, for Warren County listings or www.mckeanmls.com for McKean County listings This is where all the Real Estate Agency’s put all their listings and since we cooperate with each other. I can show any listing in the MLS. It makes for a smoother process if you work with one agent as you will both get to know each other, it will be easier for the agent to narrow down your wants, needs and preferences. So when the right house comes along we are ready to make the offer and have everything in place. However, your homework is to get into the habit of checking the website each day or if you prefer I can log you in and give you a user ID and pass code and set the system so it emails you when a home comes on the market with your search criteria. Being the first notified gives us an edge since moving quickly on a good property is important!
Second, we will need a pre-approval. This will establish your ‘high end’ or “preferred monthly payment” so we can narrow our search. We will need it to make an offer as well some seller requires the pre-approval to view their home. You should get this pre-approval about 20 minutes over the phone. Here are a few lenders that can get you a pre-approval.
Peoples State Bank Pat Flynn 814-308-8061 or 814-280-0361
Coldwell Banker Mortgage 888-308-5395.
Northwest Savings Bank 814-723-9696
First Niagara Bank 800-421-0004
(Each bank has its own requirements so if one say no call another)
You can use whoever you like for your mortgage, as you should always shop for the best rates and type of loan that fits your needs. We will discuss loan options prior to scheduling appointments since different loans required different criteria that the house must satisfy.
Third, when you find a house on the MLS do a drive-by to make sure it is the area you want to be in and see that the pictures do it justice. Some take good pictures but in person it is not so hot and other does not photograph well but look real good in person. Don’t rely on the pictures alone.
Fourth, call me Karlene 814-688-0329 or Ron 814-688-0410 to set an appointment to view the inside of the homes you like.
The rest of the step will come when you are ready to make and offer and we will hold your hand thru the process.
Looking forward to working with you!
