1.  Find the right representative

Even if you’re not quite ready to buy, your buyer’s agent can be an absolute wealth of information, and can often offer ‘scoops’ on local developments you might not have know about otherwise.  In real estate, the seller is the party that pays BOTH the seller's and the buyer's agent commission. So working with a buyer's agent costs you nothing, and can save you time, hassle, headaches and money!

2.  Find out what your price range is

Online mortgage calculators are a good place to start, but as you get closer to being ready to buy, there is no substitute for a written mortgage pre-approval.  Just speaking to your lender is an extremely worthwhile venture – this is the only way to really get an in-depth picture of your overall financial picture and to discover exactly what you can reasonably afford to spend on a home. We've worked with many lenders and will be happy to get you connected with some.

3.  Find out what your local market looks like

The internet can be incredibly valuable in doing preparatory research.  Start with your agent – he or she can direct you to valuable resources and immediately start e-mailing you real estate listings that may interest you (or at least give you a better idea of what your needs and wants are).

4.  Find out what your true needs and wants are

Compose a needs/wants list that takes into consideration your local market conditions, your price range, and the advice of your real estate agent. "Needs" are things you HAVE to have. "Wants" are things you'd LIKE to have. When looking at homes, make sure you are getting at least what you NEED.

5.  Find your dream home!

Once you’re ready to act, you may be surprised by how quickly you can make a decision.  Armed with your pre-approval, a little market knowledge, and your needs/wants list, call your real estate agent, hit the pavement, and when you see ‘the house’, put in an offer. 

With the Buzz Realty team behind you, it really can be that easy!

Buying a home in the Atlanta area - What you need to know!

There is a tremendous amount of work, knowledge and effort that needs to go into buying a home. At Buzz Realty, we understand the Atlanta area real estate market, and we understand Georgia real estate rules and regulations.

A home purchase is likely the single largest investment you will make in your lifetime. As such, it is critical to have a team of professionals helping in every step along the way.  This team includes:

Your Agent
A successful purchase starts with the right representative. In fact, once you’ve selected the best agent to represent you, it is likely that he or she can recommend other professionals to join your team, taking more of the responsibility off of your shoulders.

Your Lender and Appraiser
A bank is not just a bank. Having the right backer can be extremely important – it is your money we’re talking about after all! Make sure that your lender and financial representative is someone with whom you feel comfortable, and be wary of any lender who promises you more than you think you can reasonably afford. Your lenders may or may not require an independent appraisal, and typically will make arrangements for the appraisal themselves.

Your Title/Escrow Company
Your home purchase is far too important a transaction to skimp on legal paperwork and title insurance needed to protect your investment. We've worked with many companies, and will be glad to help you decide which one to work with.

Home Inspector
No home inspection is 100% guaranteed, but a few hundred dollars to catch a major problem now is certainly better than many thousands to correct that ‘surprise’ down the road. We strongly encourage all of our clients to get a home inspection prior to closing on the purchase of your home, and we'll be happy to help you find a qualified inspector.

Catalina Hutanu Broker/Owner Buzz Realty, Inc. Office Phone: 678.354.2473