• Location, Location, Location
• New Home Check List
• Resale

• 14 Steps to Obtaining a Mortgage
• Amortization Table and Mortgage Calculator
• The Right Lender

Buying Smart

Before you begin your home search, you should know your buying power. This is usually done through pre-qualification. It is important to know that different mortgage products can affect your buying power. For example, different rates and types of mortgages can determine different monthly payment amounts, even for the same loan amount. It is important to choose the right mortgage broker for this - one that knows all the creative ways to get you your loan at the best price. Please see my Financing section for more information on this.

Selecting a location can be one of the most important decisions you make in buying your new home. If you are new to the area, this can be difficult. That's just one reason why having a relocation specialist as your buyer's agent is so crucial. Below are some basic points that should be considered when selecting a location.

• Accessibility to major roadways
• Commute time to work
• High employment areas within commutable distance
• Public transportation
• Availability of public utilities and city services (natural gas, septic vs. sewer, water)
• Proximity and quality of schools
• Availability of shopping facilities, restaurants, and entertainment
• Neighborhood restrictions or guidelines
• Possible road construction
• Age and condition of other homes in the neighborhood (pride of ownership)
• Typical buyer profile within the neighborhood
• Value of homes in neighborhood (never buy the most expensive home on the block!)
• Noise pollution - truck route, airports, factories, etc.

When considering a home, be sure to carefully inspect the following areas. Even though you should always hire a professional inspector when buying a home, a critical look at these key elements will help you make you buying decision and also help determine your offering price.

Attic:	Is there any evidence of leakage? Examine thickness and condition of insulation.
Basement:	Are there water stains, mildew, or dampness? Any cracks in floors or walls?
Bathrooms:	Are there loose tiles & grout? If so, there could be water damage in the floors and walls.
Carpets:	Are there any damages or burns, evidence of pets, moths, insects, or stains from water damage?
Ceilings:	Are there any cracks or holes? Discoloration from water leaks?
Crawl Space:	Is there any evidence of water in the crawl space?
Decking:	Are the railings sturdy? Is there any evidence of dry-rot?
Fireplace:	When was it last cleaned? Does the flue work?
Floors:	Are they well maintained?
Furnace and Air Conditioner:	Do they work? Are they overly loud or do they produce fumes? Ask for the service records.
Kitchen:	Are the countertops and linoleum in decent condition? Do the cabinets open and close correctly? Does the oven work?
Power:	Turn on the TV and then the oven to see if the picture fades due to power drains.
Pools and Spas:	Is there any evidence of leakage? Check for cracks, condition of tile, maintenance records, condition of pumps and cleaning equipment, child proof fences, etc.
Roof:	How old is the roof? Are there water pools (stay away from flat roofs)? Any sags, curling shingles or missing shingles? Any missing bricks or mortar on chimney?
Stairs & Banisters:	Are they sturdy and in good repair?
Walls:	Are there any cracks or holes? Discoloration from water leaks?
Water:	Is there a water filter? How does it taste? Are there any signs of leaks or corrosion under sinks? Test the water pressure by turning on the sink and shower and flushing the toilet simultaneously.
Windows and Doors:	Are they double-paned? Do they rattle when traffic drives by? Are there any noticeable drafts?

• Know what style and construction of homes are considered the most appropriate and desirable for the area. Uniquely constructed homes built to suit personal taste can be very difficult to resell, especially if it stands out in its own neighborhood.
• When decorating your new home keep in mind that neutral colors will appeal to more buyers.
• Landscape for the area and climate - a yard that is difficult to maintain will not appeal to everyone.
• When renovating, keep in mind the comparative value of other homes in the neighborhood. Don't make your home the most expensive on the block.
• Don't expect built-in items or swimming pools to add more than 1/3 of their cost to the value of the home.

Financing

Understanding the lending process helps make obtaining a mortgage less stressful and much easier. Once you find the right home and come to a purchase agreement with the seller, you will need to follow the steps outlined below to get your mortgage:

Northwest MLS Listings

This link to the Northwest MLS Listings will give you a good idea of what homes are available in the Eastside and Seattle. Keep in mind that many of the homes on this site may already be sold, but have not been removed from the site. If you find a home that interests you, I can get you more information about it. Chances are, I've already been in it! Just e-mail me or call me at (425) 814-4522 with the MLS number. I will get back to you as soon as possible.