Whether it is your first or tenth time it can still be overwhelming!

Buying a Home!

First of all, keep one thing in mind when buying a home in the Halifax market: it doesn't have to be stressful. It may be one of the biggest and most important decisions you will make, but at the same time, it should it be enjoyable!

Where do I start?

Sometimes getting this process started can be the hardest part. Most buyers are suffering from the case of the chicken or the egg. What comes first?

Things to keep in mind:

Step 1) Find out how much money you can spend on a home. Contact a mortgage broker or bank to see what mortgage rates, terms, etc. they can offer you. If you need help finding a mortgage broker you can trust, contact us. We have a list of professional people that suite almost any situation.

Step 2) And this step can be combined with step one. Find a Real Estate Agent that you trust and relate to. You will spend a lot of time together and you need to make sure that you’re both on the same page. Remember, having one agent working with you will ensure that you have been fully represented in this process. The only time buying a home can seem scary is when you don’t have open communication with the person who is assisting you in what is probably the biggest purchase you will ever make.

Step 2 ½) Find a lawyer that you know has been recommended to you. If you don’t know any please let us know. We have worked with some great ones that always get things done on time. *You will need a lawyer to assist you with the closing of your new home. They will also review the accepted Agreement of Purchase and Sale for you.

Step 3) Find an area that fits you. Write a list of all the things you like in a community and what is important to you and your family. Some examples are

• Schools, daycare

• Distance to work

• Whether you want to be on city water and sewer, or well and septic

• Bus routes

• Yard and land surrounding your home

• Dirt or paved roads

• Types of homes (condos, semi-detached, or detached)

Your will also have wants and needs not listed above but all factors need to be thought over when making this decision. We think the best way to find out what area suits you best is to take a Sunday and drive around to possible communities. You will be surprised how quickly you will find an area that you know is perfect for you!

Step 4) Landing the perfect nest! Many people know what they like so choosing a style of home will feel quite natural. Be careful no to limit your options. Some of the ugliest homes are actually lost diamonds in the rough. They are waiting for the perfect person to make them shine!

Step 5) Making an offer! Once you have:

• Found your source of financing

• Found the perfect agent

• Found the right community

• And the home of your dreams!

…You can make an offer! All offers have conditions to protect you as well as the home owner.

When an offer is accepted and everything is said and done, we can start working with on the conditions. Some common conditions are:

• Financing

• Insurance

• Inspection

• Water test (if the property is on a well)

• Heating cost disclosure

• Electrical cost disclosure

• Condo bylaws (for sale of Condos)

• New land migration from old deed to new system (Taken care of by seller)

• Covenants

• Lawyer

Remember, every property is different, so conditions may vary.

After all conditions have been met and you are happy, you can sit back and relax until the day of closing. On this day, we will do a final walk-through to ensure that everything is in good order. You then meet with your lawyer to sign the paper work, and then get ready for the real work…MOVING!

The above tips are intended for use as guidelines and will help you see what is involved in the process of buying a home so that is doesn’t seem so scary. A great Real Estate Agent will guide you through and take care of any concerns you may have along the way!

We can’t wait to hear from you. See you soon!

Tanya and Tony