1. Determine how much house you can afford.

·         Calculate your monthly income and debt.

·         Check your credit report and FICO score.

·         Use my mortgage calculator at www.JHinton.com

·         Talk with a reputable lender.  Ask your agent for referrals

2. Get pre-approved for a mortgage.

·         Choose a type of mortgage that fits your Real Estate goals.

·         Speak to at least three lenders.  Ask your agent for referrals.

·         Shop for the best interest rates (APR) and programs.

·         Ask for a Truth in Lending Statement or Good Faith Estimate.

3. Determine what you want and need in a home.

·         Choose a location or area, i.e. West Akron, Copley, Green, Medina

·         Choose a type & style (single family, condo; large lot or subdivision).

·         Choose a price range & desired amenities. 

·         Choose the number of bedrooms & size.

4. Research your target neighborhoods. 

·         See my website for information on schools.   www.JHinton.com

·         Determine your work commute.

·         Scout local amenities, such as parks, shops and restaurants.

·         Take a drive or walk through the neighborhood & talk to neighbors.

·         Find out if there are homeowner association fees and/or deed restrictions.

5. Work with a buyer's agent who represents YOUR Interests.

·         Full Time Realtor.

·         Agent who is from the area & familiar with the neighborhoods.

·         Experienced agent with references and proven negotiation skills.

·         Look for good chemistry & communication.

·         Your agent will be your guide throughout the most expensive purchase of your life, make sure you can trust them.

6. Search for homes using my website.

·         Browse listings online, including my Atlas Search.

·         Ask your agent to set up tours of homes that fit your criteria.

·         Check local newspapers.

·         Review your “client portal” that your agent will set up for you.

7. Research each home you want to buy.

·         Ask your agent for “comps” to estimate the property's fair market value.

·         Find out the seller's reason for selling.

·         Review all property disclosures.

·         Find out about association fees, liens, easements or other restrictions.

8. Make an offer and negotiate. Rely on the experience of your Agent

·         Determine the purchase price.

·         Include contingencies, such as financial, inspection or purchase.

·         Spell out any special requests and repairs you want included in the sale.

·         Determine an earnest money amount.

·         Define a move-in date (possession).

·         Once both parties agree to the terms, sign the Purchase and Sale Agreement.

9. Finalize the deal.  Your agent will guide you step by step.

·         Get the house appraised.

·         Get a professional home inspection.

·         Consider getting specific inspections for structural engineering, roof and termites.

·         Use the appraisal and inspection reports to re-negotiate if necessary.

·         Choose a home insurance company.

·         Complete the loan process with the lender.

·         Do a walk-through inspection prior to closing.

·         Set aside cash for the closing costs and down payment.

·         Do not make any significant purchases or job changes before closing

 10. Close the deal.

·         Review the settlement document (HUD Statement) with your agent before closing to see how funds will be collected and distributed.

·         Get a cashier's check for the amount you need to bring to closing, including the down payment and closing costs.

·         Review the contract to determine what “closing” actually is.  Typically this will be when the new deed is recorded with the county and most likely will occur the day after signing your closing documents.

·         Be sure to contact the utility companies to transfer utilities into your name.

11. Take possession of your new home!

·         The term “Possession” refers to when you actually receive your keys and can enter your new home.  The contract will dictate a specific time and date.