-
The following strategies and tools can be a great starting point for cash-strapped CEOs looking to kickstart their marketing programs on the cheap.More >> The following strategies and tools can be a great starting point for cash-strapped CEOs looking to kickstart their marketing programs on the cheap.More >> We're one step closer to mandatory online sales tax collection. Next, the bill moves to the House.More >> We're one step closer to mandatory online sales tax collection. Next, the bill moves to the House.More >> Now that nearly a decade has passed since the housing market peaked, what lessons can investors and banks learn from the banking crisis brought on by the Great Recession?More >> Now that nearly a decade has passed since the housing market peaked, what lessons can investors and banks learn from the banking crisis brought on by the Great Recession?More >> Real success takes discipline and methodology. Here are eight things the most successful people are meticulous about getting right.More >> Real success takes discipline and methodology. Here are eight things the most successful people are meticulous about getting right.More >> While pursuing an MBA comes with its own set of challenges, an MBA can be a valuable asset on the path to a better career for young professionals with clear career goals and realistic expectations.More >> While pursuing an MBA comes with its own set of challenges, an MBA can be a valuable asset on the path to a better career for young professionals with clear career goals and realistic expectations.More >> Construction leads the way, but the recovery is affecting a broader base of businesses, according to a new study.More >> Construction leads the way, but the recovery is affecting a broader base of businesses, according to a new study.More >> A new HubSpot survey proves inbound marketing is a hands down winner in customer attraction. Here are seven tips on how to drive customers to your door.More >> A new HubSpot survey proves inbound marketing is a hands down winner in customer attraction. Here are seven tips on how to drive customers to your door.More >> In an age when billion has become the new million, which unexpected folks have joined the ranks of the billionaire club?More >> In an age when billion has become the new million, which unexpected folks have joined the ranks of the billionaire club?More >> The House of Representatives settled on an 11th-hour agreement that averted widespread tax increases and spending cuts that were set to kick in Jan. 1.More >> The House of Representatives settled on an 11th-hour agreement that averted widespread tax increases and spending cuts that were set to kick in Jan. 1.More >> Avis has announced that it will purchase high-tech car-sharing company Zipcar for around $500 million.More >> Avis has announced that it will purchase high-tech car-sharing company Zipcar for around $500 million. The deal is expected to greatly increase the availability of Zipcar vehicles for customers.More >>
-
- Find the value of your home
- Sell your home
- Search homes for sale
- Get new home listings alerts
More >>
When I find the home I want, how much should I offer?
Answer: Again, your real estate broker can help you here. But there are several things you should consider: 1) is the asking price in line with prices of similar homes in the area? 2) Is the home in good condition or will you have to spend a substantial amount of money making it the way you want it? You probably want to get a professional home inspection
before you make your offer. Your real estate broker can help you arrange one. 3) How long has the home been on the market? If it's been for sale for awhile, the seller may be more eager to accept a lower offer. 4) How much mortgage will be required? Make sure you really can afford whatever offer you make. 5) How much do you really want the home? The closer you are to the asking price, the more likely your offer will be accepted. In some cases, you may even want to offer more than the asking price, if you know you are competing with others for the house. What if my offer is rejected?
Answer:
They often are! But don't let that stop you. Now you begin negotiating. Your broker will help you. You may have to offer more money, but you may ask the seller to cover some or all of your closing costs or to make repairs that wouldn't normally be expected. Often, negotiations on a price go back and forth several times before a deal is made. Just remember - don't get so caught up in negotiations that you lose sight of what you really want and can afford!
So what will happen at closing?
Answer: Basically, you'll sit at a table with your broker, the broker for the seller, probably the seller, and a closing agent. The closing agent will have a stack of papers for you and the seller to sign. While he or she will give you a basic explanation of each paper, you may want to take the time to read each one and/or consult with your agent to make sure you know exactly what you're signing. After all, this is a large amount of money you're committing to pay for a lot of years! Before you go to closing, your lender is required to give you a booklet explaining the closing costs, a "good faith estimate" of how much cash you'll have to supply at closing, and a list of documents you'll need at closing. If you don't get those items, be sure to call your lender BEFORE you go to closing. Be sure to read our booklet on settlement costs
. It will help you understand your rights in the process. Don't hesitate to ask questions. Copyright U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
