Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Understanding Your Needs as a First Time Home Buyer in Minneapolis, St Paul and Surrounding Suburbs

Whether you live in Robbinsdale, Minneapolis, St Paul or the surrounding suburbs, the following tips will help you make the right decision when you decide to write an offer on real estate with your Realtor.

Drive To Learn about Real Estate in Minnesota

I encourage my clients to either drive with me or on their own to learn more about areas they would consider living. Often times, Minnesota first time home buyers are working within a tight budget and cannot afford their first choice area. By touring different areas with a knowledgable Realtor, you can learn about great and affordable neighborhoods you maybe haven't considered. Consider the following questions as a basis for determining your location needs:

Where is the nearest shopping center, bus line, police station and library?
What schools are available and school district are you in?
What types of homes (single family, apartments, condominiums) are in the neighborhood?
How far apart are the homes?
How far is it to your work?
What community resources are available?
Generally, where are the cars parked (driveways, garages, street)?
Do you notice a lot of noise, traffic or pollution?
Are the homes in good repair and the landscaping well kept?

Keep your eyes open and your notebook in hand as you walk through a potential home. Consider the following questions as a basis for determining your needs as a Minnesota real estate buyer:

How long has the home been on the market?
Why is the home being sold?
What is the asking price of the home?
Has the price been lowered?
Is the price comparable to other homes in the neighborhood?
What is the down payment required?
Is the house structurally sound?
Is there room enough for the present and the future?
Do you like the floor plan of the home?
What condition is the yard in?
What improvements must be made?
Will the seller repair or replace any items that need repair or replacement?

No comments: