ARE YOU READY FOR HOME OWNERSHIP?

Owning a home may be your dream, but in order for the purchase to be the happy and satisfying experience it was meant to be, you need to ensure that you are financially and mentally prepared for the responsibilities that come with it.

Some people have a notion that home ownership is like renting, but with the power to have pets and paint the walls whatever color you like. However, while these privileges are available to homeowners in most municipalities, they come with the responsibilities of a mortgage, taxes and home maintenance. Preparing for home ownership requires you to take critical stock of your finances and your expectations.

QUESTIONS FOR PROSPECTIVE HOMEOWNERS

Are You Ready to Buy?

Owning your own home is about more than just being able to decorate any way you like; it's about being prepared to maintain your home over the years, realizing that part of your income and time will go towards repairs and maintenance. It's about being willing to take the risks of home ownership with a realistic expectation of the rewards.

What is Your Debt-to-Income Ratio?

This is something that lenders take very seriously. Your overall debt should not be more than 40% of your income, and your housing debt should not be more than 32%. What 32% of your income will buy depends on where you want to live.

What Do You Want?

Do you like the idea of cleaning your own gutters? Do you shudder at the thought of lawn care? Would you rather just pay a fee every month and have everything done for you? Would obeying rules about when you can have your garbage cans out bother you? The answers to these questions can help you narrow down the search for the right type of property for you.

6 WAYS I CAN HELP

a-good-agent

I WORK HARD FOR YOU

I am dedicated to helping you find the right home at the best price. I want you to find the home that will make you happy and successful in real estate ownership.

When you hire me to help you buy your first home in Saskatoon, we will discuss what you are looking for and how much you can afford. We will narrow down a list of your wants and needs, then begin our search to find you a home that will meet your budget and needs.

objectives-in-mind

I KEEP YOUR OBJECTIVES IN MIND

I keep your objectives in mind when viewing each and every possible home. I keep a list handy of the features that you need and want, and judge each home by that list instead of by details that could distract you from your goal. Then, when we're alone, we will go over the pros and cons of each home alongside that list to see how they really scored. I help you stay on track while still keeping our eyes out for a great property.

good-real-estate-lawyer

I HELP YOU FIND A GOOD REAL ESTATE LAWYER

I can recommend several lawyers in the area who might be a good fit for you. You can then interview them to ensure that you get someone you can work with. The legalities of transferring land ownership can be hard to navigate, and a lawyer can be your best defense against future legal troubles. A good lawyer can charge several hundred to over a thousand dollars for their services, but the thousands of dollars saved in legal fees later on makes this a good expense.

make-the-offer

I HELP YOU MAKE THE OFFER

This can be an overwhelming process of “buyer”, “seller”, “chattels”, “deposit”, and “completion”. I am here to prepare the paperwork and walk through it step by step before submitting. There are three possible outcomes once we submit the offer—the seller may reject, counter your offer, or accept your offer. No matter the outcome, I will ensure you get the best advice on every offer so you can get the best deal on your dream home.

home-inspections

I GET ALL NECESSARY INSPECTIONS DONE

A home inspector will check for signs of harmful materials, like asbestos, lead, and mold. They’ll also check for evidence of pests, faulty wiring and leaks. This is a crucial part of the home purchase. Not getting an inspection done means that you could be stuck in a home with underlying issues that can be quite costly. Inspections will cost a few hundred dollars, but is more than worth it in the end. There are several inspectors in the area that I'd be happy to recommend.

final-walkthrough

I DO A FINAL WALKTHROUGH

Before closing the deal, I will do a final walkthrough of your new home with you. This ensures that everything agreed upon in your Purchase Agreement is completed prior to the final signing. Sellers often forget about certain conditions, especially in the hustle and bustle of their own move. And with the excitement of Possession Day upon you, there may be something you might miss, too. I can help double-check everything you need so it all goes to plan.

From the first interview that determines your requirements to the moment that you receive the keys, I can help you with the complicated process of buying a home. Don't hesitate to contact me to find out more about how I can make the home buying process easier!