Bellevue is a charming city located a short distance from Seattle. The city is widely considered one of the best places to live in Washington. More people are attracted to the area for its thriving economy, convenient location, plenty of recreational activities, and excellent education. If you are one of those looking to relocate to Bellevue, navigating the competitive Bellevue real estate agent can be overwhelming. But don’t worry; here are some helpful tips to help you avoid common mistakes when buying a home in Bellevue.
List of Needs and Wants
When searching for a home in Bellevue, preparing a list of needs and wants is important. The first list should include items you must have in your dream home. These include the number of bedrooms you require depending on the size of your family or a one-story house for accessibility. The second list should feature the list of wishes that you would like to have, such as a den and pool, but that are not totally necessary. But realistically, as a first-time buyer, there is a high chance that you won’t get everything on your wishlist, but it will help you keep track of the home you are searching for.
Get a Pre-Approval
Before starting your home hunting in Bellevue, consider visiting a mortgage broker and find out how much you can afford to pay for your dream home. And while knowing the amount you can afford is the first step, sellers will be more receptive to already approved buyers. You will also avoid getting disappointed by going after homes that are out of your price range. The preapproval costs are nominal, and lenders will typically permit you to pay them when you close your loan.
Representation by A Real Estate Agent
Consider hiring a real estate agent who works for you, the buyer, not the seller. An experienced realtor such as Mary Pong can offer invaluable guidance in a competitive real estate market like Bellevue. Real estate professionals use their network and knowledge of the local real estate industry to locate the most excellent off-market listings to find you the perfect home within your budget. They will also help you with paperwork and negotiations.
Home Inspection
Perform a home inspection to find any possible problems before purchasing a property in Bellevue. Among the things that purchasers in Bellevue should be aware of are termite damage and the presence of radon. It also emphasizes the electrical, plumbing, heating, and air systems and the roof and foundation. Hire a professional home inspector to do a thorough assessment of your house to identify any costly hidden problems.
Make an Offer and Close the Deal
Make an offer immediately after finding the home you like and are satisfied after the inspection. Your real estate agent will guide you in making a realistic offer. Before closing the deal, request a second walk-through within twenty-four hours of closing. You want to ensure no changes were made that were not agreed on.
Find A Home in Bellevue with Mary Pong
All the above steps might seem a bit overwhelming, especially if you are a first-time homeowner. This is why having a professional real estate agent represent you and keeping track of all the details is recommended. Mary Pong, an experienced real estate agent in Bellevue, is ready to help you find the best homes for sale in Bellevue. Contact her today for more information.