Are you buying your new home in Bakersfield?

For a lot of people, buying a home can be an intimidating event. But with some planning ahead of time, it's not that confusing. I like to provide buyers with a road map of the entire deal so they'll understand exactly what to expect. These are my nine steps to purchasing a home. When you're ready to get started, simply contact me here or e-mail me at . I'm glad to answer questions you have regarding this information.

Step 1 – Prepare to buy
Prior to starting your home search, there are plenty of things you'll want to contemplate. When you start your search, you'll want to put together a list of features you need to have, get an idea of what neighborhoods you'd like to live in, and begin planning around your budget. Ensuring your mortgage payment is less than or around a third of your net monthly income is a good rule to go by.

Step 2 – Speak with a real estate agent in Bakersfield
This is where I come in. I'd be happy to schedule a time to get together with you and speak with you about your real estate needs and get an idea of your future plans. We'll discuss the mortgage industry, other economic factors that may potentially affect your purchase today or in the future, as well as neighborhoods and school districts in the Bakersfield area.

In addition, I'll assist you with getting started on your loan. Fenton Real Estate works with some of Bakersfield's best mortgage professionals, so you're in great hands. They will help you decide which kind of loan is best for you, as well as help you get approved.

Step 3 – Start house-hunting
After we meet for the first time, I'll begin looking for homes on the market that are a great fit for you. I'll preview many of the houses and throw out the bad ones, and then we'll set up appointments to tour the homes when it's most convenient for you.

When we tour the homes, I'll point out positive features, as well as negative ones. I'll also ask you to talk about things you like and don't like. It's widely common for buyers to amend their wish list as we tour houses and some features become more crucial than others. If that's the case, I'll search the listings another time and narrow it down to the house you've been wishing for.

Step 4 – Understand the housing market
Your agent's knowledge of the Bakersfield housing market is a leading agent in your house search. And I can assure you I'm informed of all the neighborhoods and school districts, and I will let you know certain areas are "hot" and warrant immediate action and the ones that are "cool" and allow for careful consideration.

When we view homes, I'll be sure to tell you when the seller's list price has room for bargaining and when I think the house is "priced to sell." Any real estate agent in Bakersfield will convince you they comprehend the housing market, but be wary, and be sure to ask plenty of questions. If it doesn't seem like they know everything, call me at 661-205-5475 or e-mail me at , and I'll be happy to answer any questions you have. My knowledge of the market will help you stay a step ahead through the entire deal.

Step 5 – Find the home you've been looking for
We'll find your dream house in the Bakersfield area, and when that happens, I'll precisely develop your purchase offer. The offer will be tailored keeping your needs in mind and the home, including many contingencies. A few examples are obtaining financing, completing the home inspection, and a clear title.

Upon submitting your purchase offer, you'll likely want to submit "earnest money." This is a cash deposit submitted to the home seller to secure the offer to purchase the property and is usually put towards the cost of closing. If the offer is accepted, we should close on the home within 30 to 60 days after. This allows enough time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate
A lot of contracts aren't closed on the initial offer – it's very common to receive a counter offer. Don't let it discourage you. We'll discuss whether or not to agree to the counter offer, propose our own counter offer, or reject the seller's offer and move on.

The state of the market will play a big part in how aggressively we negotiate the deal. We'll also work within your financing constraints. And at the end of the day, we'll create a contract that works well for you.

Step 7 – Secure financing
Once we sign the final contract, you'll begin working with your lender to close the loan. This shouldn't take very long at all if you're pre-qualified, but you'll need to keep in close contact with your lender. And I'll manage all the property information your mortgage lender will need to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
Your mortgage lender will furnish you with a Loan Estimate (LE) of closing costs within three days of getting your application. You'll get a Loan Estimate (LE) of closing costs from your mortgage lender within three days of taking your application. This estimate is based on the loan amount, and RESPA requirements require that it has to include all closing costs and be within a narrow range of accuracy. I'll examine the estimate and let you know if everything looks okay.

Then it's time to close on your house. This should take place at a title company or escrow office and will most often be a smooth and stress-free event.

Step 9 – Move in
Congratulations! It's time to move into your new home. Enjoy it. And if you have any questions, make sure you contact me at 661-205-5475 or e-mail me at .