IS THIS "THE ONE"

Whether you're ready to commit to a place because it actually has most of the "must haves" on your list, or whether it's the realization that there's not a lot of suitable inventory on the market that has made you a little impulsive, before you sign the purchase agreement, take a moment-and a deep breath-to remind yourself of the following buying parameters:

1)  DON'T BITE OFF MORE THAN YOU CAN CHEW.  Your monthly housing costs-including mortgage payments, property taxes, homeowner's insurance, heating costs etc.-shouldn't take up more than a third of your gross monthly income.  Work with your mortgage representative to figure out what you can afford, and stick to that budget.

2) LOOK BEYONE THE FOUR WALLS.  In addition to the home itself, make sure the area will work for you and your family.  Check out transportation, amenities, schools, shopping, safety issues, distance from work and family, and if the style of the neighbourhood is one you can see yourself assimilating into.

3) INSPECT, REFLECT.  It's easy to get excited about finding what is possibly your "perfect" new home, but to make sure it's more than just a pretty presentation, have a home inspection done before you sign on the final dotted line.

4) WORK WITH A GOOD REAL ESTATE REPRESENTATIVE.  Let your real estate professional guide you through the home buying process.  This is likely the largest purchase you'll ever make-your representative will make sure you follow all the right steps to a successful transaction!

The Antrobus Team