Tecumseh and Lenawee County Real Estate Blog

This Blog is to share Real Estate information from the trenches. In an evolving market, I'll keep you in the loop on the ups and downs. Stay tuned!

Wednesday, March 08, 2006

Looking for robins

This time of year I am anxiously awaiting each and every sign that Winter is losing its grip and Spring is arriving. So far no robins, but another sign has started, lots of showings being set up for our listings! We are all interested in seeing what type of market we will be dealing with this season. I would be thrilled with an even market, lots of Buyers, lots of Sellers and the resulting reasonable sales prices for all. It seems like we might be heading that way. Here are a few tips for Buyers who are thinking of making a move soon:

1. Gather all your financial records together and contact a lender to arrange your pre-approval prior to beginning your home search. If you would like some recommendations, just give me a call and I will be happy to help.
2. Put off making any large purchases unless your lender assures you that such a purchase will not impact your loan approval. Now is not the time to make impulse buys, like that hot new convertible. Remember, having your own home will make it all worthwhile!
3. We've all seen the commercials for credit counseling companies, promising to consolidate and lower your monthly payments and you may think that this will help you before going in to apply for your loan. Many times this turns out to be a big mistake, underwriters view using these services as a sign that you cannot handle your finances and are therefore higher risk. I had a buyer who was preapproved actually lose the home they wanted to buy when it was discovered that after filling out the initial forms they signed up with a credit counselor, the lender withdrew their approval.
4. Start getting a feel for the market and pricing, you can run your own search of the MLS right from my website, www.TecumsehProperties.com. See what you like, the styles of homes and the neighborhoods that draw you. When you have an idea of what you are after, let me know. I will educate you on the buying process, help you find a home you love and walk you step by step through the process of making it your own.