Whether you’re looking for prime Newport Beach luxury real estate, a money-making rental property in Corona Del Mar or a retirement palace in Pelican Hill, you’ll want a quick and easy Orange County home shopping checklist to go through while exploring this diverse and amazing Southland home market. Virtually every variety of real estate in Orange County is available for much less than their top value and home loan interest rates are at their lowest in years. So, if you’re looking to buy now, here’s a list of what you want to do.
1. Maybe you do want that amazing piece of Newport Beach luxury real estate and you’ve got millions in the bank to buy on the spot. It doesn’t matter. You still have to do your homework. That’s right, it pays to research the property that you’re interested in, as well as the area. The place you love might look nice on the outside, but what’s the plumbing like? Is it a sound investment? Is the home a modern bachelor pad or just right for the family? Are there beautiful parks nearby? What about good schools for the kids? Do as much research as you can about real estate in your area of choice, take careful notes and get ready to run them by your trusted real estate agent. In the meanwhile, you can look through the regional MLS and other property listings to compare pricing, features, neighborhoods and more.
2. Outline what you want. Sounds simple, right. It isn’t. And you’ll likely require the input of your spouse, relatives, the bank and many more. Be sure to jot down aesthetic requirements, room requirements, lighting requirements, etc. If this home is a rental property, you may want expand a small outside fire pit area for multiple party guests. If it’s a family home and you have kids, you may want to install more safety railing. Write these items down and check them twice!
3. Familiarize yourself with all of the real estate financing types available. You may be qualify for a great 30-year fixed loan from the bank, but it might cost you more in interest than a 20-year loan with a higher monthly payment. The property may be owner-financed with low interest rates, but requires a bigger down payment to get into the property. Of course, cash is king, but paying for a home outright may prevent you from making major improvements right away from lack of extra funds. Ask us about lenders we regularly work with who can help you.
4. Get your credit checked. Many weeks and months before you look for a new home, get your credit score pulled. This will help make sure that you can get a good loan, if the numbers are right.
5. This one’s very important. Go ahead and make a solid offer! You have to make a formal offer in order to get the ball rolling towards owning your home. This process takes a number of days but if the property is tied up with your offer, then it’s impossible for competing offers to come through. If you qualify for a loan and are approved, you’ll be homeward bound!