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Most buyers know exactly what kind of house they want, but have very
little idea how much they can afford. The first thing you must do is contact
a lender/mortgage broker who will help you determine the type and the
amount of the loan which you can qualify for. There are two general steps
in the loan process: pre-qualification and approval. Pre-qualification gives
you a good idea how much "home" you can really afford and qualify for.
Pre-approval is the actual amount that the lender will fund to you. This
can put you into a strong bargaining position when the time comes to
make an offer.
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Choose a Realtor that belongs to the local Board of Realtors. Your agent should be knowledgeable in the neighborhoods and types of properties
that interest you. Your BARBAGELATA CO. Realtor can guide you through
the intricate and sometimes frustrating process of buying a home. At THE
BARBAGELATA CO. we will provide you with up to the minute market data,
information about local and state ordinances and we will negotiate a
transaction that is best for you. Our experience with the sale of thousands
of properties citywide will ensure the satisfaction of all parties involved in
the transaction. |
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So many houses, so little time. It is a good idea to think about what you
want before you start looking. San Francisco offers a diverse mix of single
family homes, condos, co-ops, and townhouses. Focusing on location in
San Francisco can be tricky. The neighborhoods act as cities within a city.
Once you have decided on a neighborhood, ask your Realtor about
transportation, schools, restaurants and the best coffee houses in the area. |
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San Francisco offers an abundance of older houses, such as Victorians,
Edwardians, Mediterranean Villas, etc. Often these properties have classic
features that are distinctive and unique to their era. If you are interested in
fixer uppers, these properties can dramatically increase in value with even
a few small improvements. However, be sure not to over-improve and let the
neighborhood be your pricing guide. Remember, a majority of fixer uppers
are purchased "as-is". New houses are often hard to find in San Francisco
because of the lack of open space left. However, if you buy from a builder,
you may get your choice of color schemes, fixtures and other enhancements. |
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1. The first rule in negotiation is to make sure everybody feels they come
out a winner. That means both sides need to be flexible. Ask your Realtor
to explain the purchase contract in detail and do not be afraid to ask as
many questions as you feel necessary. Leave no stone unturned.
2. Stay calm even when the stress level rises. Traditionally sellers feel they
are selling at a much lower price and buyers feel they are paying more than
they should. It is customary that once your offer is accepted, you are allowed
a certain period of time to retain various inspections for the property; this is
referred to as an inspection contingency. It is advisable that buyers retain
their own inspectors to investigate all the systems and the structure of the
house. Another contingency is a loan contingency, allowing you time to obtain
loan commitment from a lender. Close of escrow period is usually 45-60
days. If you are considering a condominium or co-op, remember that the
residents themselves make the homeowner's association rules. Therefore,
it is important to make sure the rules as well as the unit are right for you.
The majority of condominium co-ops also have monthly fees which cover
management and maintenance cost. Your Realtor can give you more
information about the monthly fee for any dwelling that you are interested in. |
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It is customary in San Francisco County for the buyer to pay for the
following expenses:
• Escrow and title fees
• Loan points
• Inspection report fees
* Please note that probate and other court confirmed sales may request the
buyer to pay the seller's City and County transfer tax & Energy Conservation
cost.Contact your title company for a thorough itemized list of expenses. The
cost of repairs recommended by licensed inspectors are usually negotiated
between buyer and seller. Also, keep in mind moving expenses, and the
cost of painting, repairing and replacing things before you move in. |
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With a little planning up front, the move to your new home can be surprisingly
simple. Here are the basics on how to make your move an easy one.
• Have the post office forward your mail
• Complete a change of address form
• Make sure friends, business associates, creditors, doctors and dentists are notified of your new address and phone number as well
• Contact your utility, phone and water company and let them know the day you would like your service transferred
• If you are transporting pets, ask your moving company about state regulations for pet entry and your veterinarian for certain safety requirements of travel
• Meet the neighbors & enjoy your new home! |
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