Buyer Steps

1. Deciding on a Neighborhood. Location does make a difference
It’s important to consider the types of neighborhoods that exist in the community you will be living in. Some things to think about is if the neighborhood is geared towards families, retirees, or second homeowners. If you want amenities, homeowner’s dues will need to be considered in your expenses. How important is it going to be for you to be close to town? These types of questions should be answered before you begin looking at properties. With the experience Donna has, she will be able to help you chose the neighborhood that best suits your needs.

2. What do you want in a home?
You can save hours of searching for a home if you have a list of criteria that is important to you. Do you and your partner or spouse agree on fundamental qualities of a home? For example, are homeowner amenities more important than the layout of the home? Are you looking for a cabin in the woods, or a condo in a new development? Answering some tough questions in the beginning will save time and reduce stress later on if you set some clear guidelines.

3. Loan Pre Approval
Rather than guessing what you can afford, meeting with a mortgage broker or lender will prevent you from falling in love with a home you cannot afford. This step also indicates to the seller that you are a genuine prospect. Not only is pre-approval attractive to a seller, it saves valuable time and stress in the escrow process.

4. Financing
Deciding between a fixed or variable mortgage rate will depend on what your plans are for the future of the home, and your financial plan. If this will be your first or “intermediary” home into the Tahoe area, one you do not plan to own for a long time, an Adjustable Rate Mortgage may be best fitting. If it’s going to be your dream home away from home, or one to raise a family in, then the stability of a fixed rate mortgage may be more appropriate.

5. Research
Information is power! Make sure you are fully informed about the market before you have to make any big decisions. A lot of information is available on the web. Recent trends, home prices, and neighborhood statistics can give you a lot of insight as to what to expect. As a resident as well as a Realtor® for 16 years in Tahoe’s market, Donna has a wealth of information to aid you in your search.

6. Property Search
From here, the fun begins! Donna will put her matchmaking skills to work for you by finding the property that meets your needs, but also satisfies your dreams and desires. She will keep you updated daily through automatic email notification of any new properties that fit your requirements. By staying informed, and following the above steps, action can be taken immediately when you do find a property you are interested in.

7. Home and Pest Inspections
Because purchasing a home is a large investment, it’s critical that you have it inspected so that you are aware of any repairs that need to be made. The home inspection consists of a visual examination from the foundation of the home to the roof. After the inspection, you will have a clearer understanding of the home you are purchasing and the maintenance that it will require.

8. Home Warranty

A home warranty, or home protection plan is normally valid for one year after the home purchase. This plan will protect you from any unexpected repairs or replacement of major items. The warranty can usually be renewed after this time period.


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