Before you start buying a home, you must understand the various terms and definitions of real estate. This knowledge will allow you to make the best decisions and save money in the long run.
– Listing Agent vs. Buyer’s Agent
There are usually two agents when buying a home: the buyer’s agent and the listing agent. The former is typically the one who represents the buyer, while the latter usually represents the seller. Dual agency is illegal in several states.
You don’t have to pay a real estate agent when buying a home. Instead, you can choose a broker to give you a commission back. Redfin is an excellent example of a broker that will provide you with a portion of the commission.
– Adjustable Rate Mortgages vs. Fixed Ratio
Conventional loans come in two different types: fixed rate and adjustable rate mortgages. With a fixed-rate mortgage, you have a set interest rate that will be consistent throughout the life of the loan. On the other hand, with an adjustable-rate mortgage, you have the option of variable interest rates.
If you are selling or refinancing your home before the interest rate on your loan ends, then an adjustable-rate mortgage might be the best option. However, if you’re planning on staying in the home for a long time, then a fixed-rate mortgage might be the best choice. Make sure that you thoroughly shop around for the best mortgage. Ask your friends, family, and real estate agent for recommendations. There is always the option for a mortgage calculator to determine the monthly payment for a different loan type.
– Pre-approval letter
Before buying a home, you must have a pre-approval letter from the bank. This document will give you an estimate of how much you can afford to borrow. This will also help the home sellers know that you’ll be able to get a loan in the future.
Before buying a home, you must have a pre-approval letter from the bank. You should also be clear about the various terms and conditions of the loan, such as the interest rate and the closing costs. Having a local lender can help you avoid getting stuck with a loan that’s not the best for you. Listing agents prefer working with local lenders as they care about their reputation and are more likely to refer potential customers.
– Listings
One of the first real estate terms you’ll likely encounter is “listings.” This is a type of advertisement that shows the details of a home for sale. Usually, a listing includes the price and number of bedrooms.
If you’re looking for the latest listings, use sites where real estate brokers operate instead of using portals or websites affiliated with real estate firms. These sites allow real estate agents to update their listings and provide the most current information. In a competitive market, you can often get a better deal by using sites that show all the homes for sale.
– Home Inspection
After you’ve made an offer on a property, you’ll most likely need to arrange a home inspection, which typically costs around $200 to $500, depending on the size and market of the home. During the inspection, the inspector will go through the entire house to check various areas, such as the walls, electrical, and heating.
Before hiring a home inspector, talk to your real estate agent about the property’s condition. They can recommend ways to improve the property or reduce the price of the home.