Buying
Make that dream home a reality
Finding the right home for you
Buying a new home is exciting - it’s the beginning of a new chapter and an opportunity to find a space that works better for you. It’s also one of the biggest financial decisions most people ever make.
Whether this is your first purchase or you are an experienced buyer, this decision must be made carefully. A trusted realtor can help you navigate the buying process and find a home that meets your unique needs.
“I want to help my clients find the right fit - even if that means pointing out flaws in a property they love. I’d rather have that reality check during the viewing than after they sign.”
Tip 1
Consider your why
A clear sense of your reasons for buying will help you choose the right property. Are you tired of paying rent? Looking to move to a new location? Have you outgrown your current home?
Tip 2
Dig into the numbers
Buying a house is a major investment. Taking time to review your financial position at the outset of this process will help you frame up what kind of property you can afford.
Tip 3
Define your needs
Decide which wish list items are non-negotiable and which are “nice to haves”. It can be helpful to start broad and narrow you search once you’ve seen a few properties.
Finances
Build your Green File
A Green File contains your financial documents and is used to secure financing for your property. Typically it incudes details about your:
Financial statements
Bank accounts
Investments
Credit cards
Auto loans
Recent pay stubs
Tax returns for two years
Copies of leases for investment properties
RRSP Statements, stocks, bonds, and mutual funds and any other investments.
Check your credit score
Your credit score will have a huge impact on what type of property you can buy, and at what price. Check your credit rating with an experienced lending institution at the beginning of your home buying journey.
Hold off on other money moves
Major purchases, new car loans/leases or career changes can all have an impact on the financing of your new home. Avoid making other big financial moves during the buying process.