Purchasing a Home? Make your Offer Count.

How you write an offer on the property you chose ultimately determines whether you win or lose.  Negotiations are about more than just the price.  Here are just a few of my keys to success.

Try to Minimize Contingencies.  Fewer contingencies mean a stronger offer.  With that in mind, you should insist on some contingencies and do your homework before you put anything on paper.  Do you need a survey of the property lines?  Is this contingent on the sale of another home?  Are you thinking about building?  Make sure your planned home is allowed in the neighborhood!  Each buyer and property is unique.  This is where an experienced and educated agent pays for themselves and helps move you toward your goals.

Hire an Inspector.  It does not matter if the property is brand new construction or 100 years old, I would recommend a trusted inspector.  I have seen older homes in superb condition and brand new homes that they forgot to hook up to the sewer system.  Paying for an inspection now could save you thousands of dollars down the road.

Check Zoning and Covenants.  Do the zoning restrictions from the city or county allow you to use the property how you wish?  Most neighborhoods contain Conditions, Covenants and Restrictions (CCRs).  Are the CCRs going to allow you to build the garage you plan in the future, accommodate an addition to the home, or in some instances restrict the color your home can be painted or limit your pets?  A professional agent will assist you in answering these questions and finding solutions.

Be Specific in Your Offer.  Your contract should cover specifically what items come with the house.  Does the refrigerator stay?  How about the curtains?  Stained Glass Window?  What about those speakers wired into the ceiling?  Riding Lawn Mower?  Be very specific about which items you expect to stay with the home.

Everything Should be in Writing.  Insist that all verbal agreements are put in writing into the final contract.  This will help you avoid the stressful and sometimes costly issues later.

The process of purchasing a home is complicated, and may be one of the largest investments you ever make.  You need a professional who not only makes the process as easy as possible, but who cares about your future.  As an experienced buyer’s agent, I offer customized tools that help organize these crucial deadlines and information to create a successful transaction.

Read on about how to save yourself time and what to look for in your buyer’s agent. 

When it comes to real estate, my goals are simple.  Let me put your needs first.

Looking for an Equestrian Property, Investment Property, Home or Land in Northern Snohomish County or on Camano Island?  Give me a call.  Jen Hudson, GRI (360) 652-1200 or jen@jenhudsonhomes.com