What should I ask about each property that I view?
As a rule of thumb, ask any questions you have about specific rooms, features, or functions. Pay particular attention to areas that you feel could become "problem" areas… additions, defects, areas that have been repaired. Above all, if you don't feel your question has been answered, ask until you do understand and are satisfied.

What should I tell the REALTOR® about the properties I view?
Tell the REALTOR® everything you liked and didn't like about each home you see. Don't be shy about talking about a home's shortcomings. Is the home too small for your needs? Was the home perfect except for the carpeting?  However, remember that the REALTOR® is paid by and working for the seller. The seller's agent is obligated to help secure the best price for the seller. In addition, A REALTOR® working for the seller will feedback any opinions you share to the seller.

How many properties should I view before I buy?
There is no set number of homes you should view before you decide to make an offer on one. That's why providing the REALTOR® with as many details as possible up front is helpful. The perfect home may be waiting for you on your first visit. Even if it isn't, the house-hunting process will help you get a feeling for the homes in the community and narrow your choices to a few homes that are worth a second look.  If you're looking in more than one community, try to make the most of each house-hunting trip. Do your homework about the community, ask the REALTOR® for maps, and information about schools, churches and recreational facilities. Also, be sure to take along a camera and snap some pictures of all the homes you like. That will make it easier to remember and reach a decision.

How do I know I'm getting the best value for my money?
By comparing and contrasting with other properties for sale in the area. When you apply for a mortgage, most lenders will have professional inspectors undertake a valuation of the property.  As a Buyer, you have the right to contract with inspection professionals to determine the viability of a purchase.

Do I need to have a building inspector (professional surveyor) check the home before I buy it?  What does the inspector do?
For your own safety and to make sure you're getting your money's worth in the home you choose, using professional inspectors is highly recommended. A building inspector will check a home's plumbing, heating and cooling, electrical systems, and look for structural problems, like a damp or leaky basement. The signed contract will dictate the timelines necessary to complete the sale.  Usually, you call professional inspectors immediately after you've made an offer on a home. However, before you sign any written offer, make sure that it includes an inspection clause or other language which says that your purchase obligation is contingent on the findings of a professional surveyor. Your proposed new home cannot "pass" or "fail" an inspection and your professional inspector will not tell you whether he or she thinks the home is worth the money you are offering. The inspector's responsibility is to make you aware of repairs that are recommended or necessary per contract. A seller may be willing to renegotiate a price to accommodate needed repairs, or you may decide that the home will take too much work and money. A professional inspection will help you make an informed decision.

Should I be present during the inspection?
It's not required, but it is very much to your advantage and you're paying!  Assign a relative or friend to be present in your absence.  Your REALTOR® will be able to clearly understand the report and know exactly which areas need attention.  Plus, you can get answers to many questions, tips for maintenance and general information to help when you move into your new home.  Most importantly, you will see the home through the eyes of an objective third party. 

What about selecting a solicitor?
Because the legal contracts and other paperwork involved in buying a home are complex and can be confusing to the general public, you need to have real estate professional represention.  It is not necessary to work with a solicitor or licenced conveyancer.  REALTORS® are licensed by the State of Florida, members of professional real estate organizations and a member of the National Association of Realtos.  Your REALTOR® will review contracts, make you aware of special considerations and potential problems, and take care of the completion to help make everything go as smoothly as possible.

Do I need to talk to an insurance agent?
Yes. Heart of Florida Realty has a Concierge Page with many needed services. These insurance professionals have a lot of experience in working with home owners and offer useful advice about all the insurable risks on a property.  You'll need to provide evidence of a fully-paid building policy for your mortgage lender when you come to completion or closing.

When I've found the home I like, how do I make an offer?
When you've found a special property, you'll probably feel excited and a bit nervous. Your REALTOR® will write an offer to purchase which declares how much you will pay for the home provided that certain conditions are met. 

How do I determine the amount of my initial offer?
Your REALTOR® will do a comparative market analysis.  As a Buyer, you can also have a licensed appraiser determine the value.  Naturally, the buyer wants the best value and the seller want the best price, but negotiations can be influenced by many factors, such as a seller who may be changing jobs and wants to sell quickly or a buyer who really wants a specific home. After you've looked at the home's features, asked questions, checked comparable prices, you should have a good idea of what the home's value is in the current market. Consider what you can afford, and make an offer that you consider to be fair.

How do I make an offer?