Last week, we looked at
selling your home and how pricing your home correctly from the beginning can be
a key factor in getting your home sold.
This week, we wanted to focus on those looking to buy a home in Chicago
this holiday season.
For whatever reason, whether
due to a job transfer or extenuating circumstances, you may find yourself in
the market to buy a home in one of Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods. And, while you may be excited about the
opportunity to own a piece of the Windy City, you may not be too excited about
the timing.
You understand that the home
buying process can take some time, yet you’d ideally like to be settled into
you new home in time for the Christmas season.
Is there a way to speed up the process?
You’ll be glad to hear our
answer! Yes, there are things you can do
to help the process run more smoothly and efficiently, resulting in a quicker
home buying experience. As property advisors and Prudential Rubloff Real Estate agents working along the Lake Michigan Shoreline, our goal is to provide you with the information and
guidance you need to navigate through your real estate needs. Here are eight things you can to do
streamline the Chicago home buying process this holiday season!
1.
Start Your Search Online- Instead of spending your time searching for open houses or for
sale signs, get online to streamline your search. There are many great
homes in Chicago that you can view online.
2.
Get Pre-Approved-
Finding the home of your dreams and then shopping for a loan is a risky move,
as most home sellers won’t even look at an offer that’s not accompanied by a
pre-approval letter. Getting pre-approved ensures you know your exact
budget and can save you from a bidding war if many are vying for the same home.
3.
Look for Motivated Sellers- Again, this shouldn’t be hard to find motivated sellers in the
fall since they’re more than likely wanting to sell before the holidays.
Don’t settle for sellers who aren’t willing to budge on a home at the top of
your price range; there are too many other great Chicago homes out there that will
have motivated sellers.
4.
Prioritize Your Housing Needs- Finding a home fast means being flexible. The longer the
list of requirements, the harder it will be to find a home. Keep your
list short and to the point. Focus on the key elements you’re looking for
and let the extras fall as they may.
5.
Find a Great Agent-
This may seem easy, but finding an agent that truly knows the Chicago Real Estate agent and can show your properties that are right in your price range
and meet your style and needs can be challenging. Of course, I’d love to
help you in your home search and know that my experience and proven success
will make the home buying process an easy one. Bottom line? Do your
homework and really research local Chicago Real Estate agents.
6.
Negotiate Repairs-
If an inspection reveals that the home you want to buy requires repairs, taking
the responsibility off the seller can help you close the deal quicker. After
obtaining estimates, ask the seller for a credit rather than asking them to
complete the repairs themselves.
7.
Have Cash Ready for Closing- You don’t want to be scrambling for funds at the last minute,
so be prepared for this important date. A day or two before closing on your
Chicago home, you’ll get the final settlement statement, detailing the terms of
your loan and all the closing costs. Be sure to get a certified or cashier’s
check made out for the total amount you owe at closing, including the down
payment since you can’t use a personal check.
8.
Have a Plan B-
Because not every transaction goes smoothly, be sure you have a property or two
as a backup; you don’t want to have to start from scratch!
We hope these
tips give you the confidence needed to take the next step forward in buying a home in Chicago. You’ll find there are a
number of stunning homes currently on the Chicago Real Estate market from which
to choose!
If you are
ready to begin your Chicago home search or would like to sit down and talk with
us about your home buying needs; please contact us today! We would be happy to answer your questions
and work with you to help you be settled in your new home to host family and
friends this holiday season!
Shoreline Property Advisors
@ Prudential Rubloff
