Questions for Prospective Homeowners

With years of experience helping buyers just like yourself, we know how to locate the finest properties and negotiate the best deals. It’s our job to know about the latest market conditions, government regulations, and upcoming developments — so that you don’t have to.

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.

How much can you afford?

It can be discouraging to find that your salary won’t stretch as far as the home you want to own. However, sacrificing a huge part of your income just to pay the mortgage can very quickly make home ownership a burden rather than a point of pride. It’s better to buy a modest home now and look at purchasing your “dream home” in a few years.

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. In rural or downtrodden areas for example, it can buy a very comfortable residence and ample acreage. In highly sought-after urban areas however, it may not even buy a 400 square foot bachelor suite.

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, or do you want to live in a neighborhood where everything is ‘just so’? The answers to these questions can help you narrow down the search for the right type of property for you.

Out-of-Country Property Purchase

If you live in another country and are looking to buy a property here, we can certainly help you. When you’re buying property outside of your country, you require professional assistance to ensure that the purchase is conducted smoothly. We offer competent representation in international real estate dealings.

International Home Buyers

Buying property in our nation can be a great investment strategy. You can find a place that works as a vacation home, a permanent residence, or as a rental property. Chances are that your property value will go up, leaving you with a significant asset.

It’s advisable to take a trip to the neighborhood you’re considering buying in for the express purpose of looking at properties and the community. If you can’t visit, seek out a competent professional to find the type of property you want for a fair price. You may wish to retain an attorney in addition to hiring a real estate agent, so that your property purchase is problem-free.

An important part of buying property here is knowing local real estate laws. You should have a good working knowledge of these laws, but if you don’t, then it’s advisable to retain some kind of legal counsel experienced in these matters as well as a real estate professional who can help you find the best property for your needs.

No matter what your goals are for purchasing property in this country, we’re dedicated to working hard for you and finding you what you want.