Northern Virginia Homes For Sale The Smart Way
Shopping for a new home is an exciting time in your life. It came be made easier if you don't let the excitement overcome your research and careful decision making. To assist, we polled a number of real estate agents in northern Virginia for advice and tips on what to do before purchasing a home.
In a recent study on Northern Virginia homes for sale it was learned that prospective homebuyers who hired an independent inspector were 80% more likely to be happy with their home after 6 months. A prospective buyer should never trust an inspector hired by the sellers. It's also not wise to just randomly choose an inspector from the yellow pages. Our Arlington VA real estate agents suggest you get a reference for an inspector from someone you trust or a real estate agent.
When you check out Northern Virginia homes for sale, it's extremely important to do a walkthrough on your own and make a detailed list of anything you aren't happy with, no matter how trivial it may seem. Real estate agents have told us that getting a good deal may hinge on the negotiating advantage gained from details found doing a walkthrough. Discuss your findings with your agent before making an offer.
Northern Virginia real estate agents also noted that there are several parts of a home that can lead to huge repair bills if they are not in top condition. Among these parts are roofs, hardwood floors, carpets, water heaters, air conditioners, and pools. Make sure that all of these are inspected carefully before you commit to your purchase, or you will face many thousands of dollars in repairs.
When long term maintenance costs are factored in to the total price, Northern Virginia new homes for sale may seem to be even more of a bargain, as they actually can cost less than older homes. This savings is because old homes cost more to maintain. Realtors note that buyers of existing homes tend to spend anywhere between 10 and 40 percent more on the upkeep of their homes. However, older homes may be more moderately priced than comparable new homes, mitigating the increased maintenance cost.
You should hear your real estate agent out, whether you're buying your first home or upgrading to the house you have always wanted. Listening to your real estate agent will save you money and time. Since Northern Virginia homes for sale have seen their prices fall sharply in recent months, you have a chance to maximize your buying power.
When shopping for Northern Virginia homes for sale, follow these tips from Arlington VA real estate agents. First, get an independent inspection of prospective homes. Hire an inspector from recommendations of friends or agents. Second, do a walkthrough and mention anything you don't like to your real estate agent, who can use your comments as leverage in price negotiations. Know the cost of any repairs or improvements you'd like to make in potential homes. Remember that purchasing Northern Virginia new homes for sale will cost more up front but will save you long-term repair and maintenance costs. Keeping these tips in mind will make the most of your buying power.
Published October 18th, 2007
Filed in Business, Marketing, Real Estate
