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Buying

Let Me Help You Every Step Of the Way.

When purchasing a home, you are faced with a multitude of decisions. Finding that perfect home is not an easy task, and obtaining a mortgage loan can be a complex and tiring process. Once you've made the commitment to reach that home-purchasing goal, though, the rewards you can achieve are unquestionable.

Assisting you every step of the way, I'll make the process of purchasing a home in Vancouver easier, more enjoyable, less time-consuming, and less expensive than if you undertook this challenge on your own. I'll help you prepare so that sellers perceive you as a preferred buyer, help you locate and assess properties for sale in Vancouver that match your specifications, and guide you through the myriad of details attending the actual purchase.

The seller has professional representation and so should the buyer. Keep in mind, the cost of a buyers agent is already paid for by the sellers. Let me explain what I mean. In most cases, the selling agent (when he took the listing) indicates he will split the commission with a buyers agent. If the buyer does not have a buyers agent, the selling agent will keep the entire commision. The money has already been allocated so you are better to 'use it' rather than 'lose it'.

Here is a stat that most people find mind-blowing... did you know there are over 9,000 realtors in the Lower Mainland! A large number of them are doing it as a part time job for a little extra money. Would you go to a part-time doctor for something as important as heart surgery? What about something as important as your home, or your investment? Real estate is my full time job. I have my finger on the pulse of the Metro Vancouver real estate market, and know neighbourhood values and market trends. I will help you determine which properties are fairly-priced and in good condition before you start your search.

Your First Step

Your first step in the home-buying process is to define the reasons why you want to purchase a new home. To stop paying rent? To start building equity? To have a place of your own? To raise a family? To move up to a bigger house?

Determine the style of home you prefer and the Vancouver area in which you'd like to live. Be specific.

Develop a needs vs. wants list. Everyone has a picture of their ideal home. This home would include all the features you not only need, but have long desired. However, when it comes time to buying a home, these desired features constitute additional costs. While it's nice to think about having an artfully landscaped backyard, or built-in appliances, these are usually considered luxury items, which can add considerably to the price of your property.

Begin the list with items you absolutely need like adequate room, garage space and number of bedrooms. How much space do you really need? Does your situation require a one-level home, or are stairs acceptable? Basic needs should be considered first. After these have been established, you can consider additional features if you can manage these benefits financially. With such a list in your hands, you're less likely to be caught up in the excitement of the pursuit. You'll have a good idea of what you want, the features within your price range, and whether or not you can afford those additional items.

Think of yourself as zeroing in on a target, going from the general to the specific. Consider area (downtown Vancouver, Burnaby, Port Moody); neighbourhood (older and settled or brand new). Check out the neighbourhoods you're considering, and ask around. What amenities does the area have to offer? Are there schools, churches, parks, or grocery stores within reach? Consider visiting schools in the area if you have children. How will you be affected by a new commute to work? Are there infrastructure projects in development? All of these factors will influence the way you experience your new home, so ensure you're well-acquainted with the surrounding area before purchasing. To learn more about what to look for in a new neighbourhood, please visit my Special Reports section!

Your Next Step: Loan Pre-Approval

Once you've narrowed down your list, you're ready to take the next step in the purchasing process: getting pre-approved with a Vancouver mortgage company. While getting pre-approved may sound daunting, it actually just involves getting an idea of what you can afford. When you're pre-approved, this means that a lender has reviewed your credit history, verified your assets and employment, and has approved your loan before you've found a Vancouver home to purchase.

Pre-approval gives you substantial leverage: sellers immediately see you as a serious buyer. Not only will you know the exact price range you can afford, but you'll also be able to negotiate a better deal and move more quickly when you see a Vancouver house you like. Depending upon market conditions, a seller may lean towards an unconditional offer, so you'll have less negotiating power if you have to wait for mortgage approval. Banks and financial institutions have developed many programs catered specifically to home buyers. Once you review your needs and objectives with a lending officer, you'll be one step closer to purchasing your home in Vancouver.

Contact me and I'll be happy to refer you to a Vancouver mortgage professional with an excellent reputation and track record for successfully acquiring loan approval for his/her clients.

Let Me Find the Perfect Home for You

It is a very time consuming process to view every home available that meets your needs. I can do much of the work for you, by establishing your needs, then reviewing a range of properties and advising you of potential matches. I have my finger on the pulse of housing trends and prices and access to the best possible resources and communication systems available today to help you locate homes on the Vancouver real estate market that match your specifications. A comprehensive knowledge of the available homes in your Vancouver neighborhood is one of my strongest assets.

Once you've been pre-approved and know what price range you plan to stay within, I can help you determine which properties fit your needs and wants, using the (MLS) Multiple Listing Service system.

Start your search now - and view my current listings!

I Will Help You Every Step Of The Way

As a Metro Vancouver Realtor, with a focus on Port Moody, Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam, it is my job to guide you through this complicated process, from beginning to end. Contact me today, together we will prepare a unique system to suit your particular needs and goals. From helping you find your dream home to closing the deal - and every small or large step in between - I will be there to ensure your journey to life behind a new door is a smooth one!