Contemplating buying a home in DuBois? Hoffer Realty Associates can help.

For many people, purchasing a home can be an intimidating event. But with a bit of up-front planning, it isn't that hard. I like to furnish buyers with an outline of the entire deal so they'll understand exactly what they can expect. These are my nine steps to purchasing a home. Should you have any questions regarding any of this information or if you're prepared to get started, simply contact me here or e-mail me at .

Step 1 – Prepare to buy
There are several things you'll want to do before beginning your home search. You'll most likely want to make an outline of must-haves, get an idea of what neighborhoods and school districts you want to live in, and begin planning around your budget. Ensuring your mortgage payment is less than or around 30 percent of your net monthly income is a good rule to go by.

Step 2 – Contact a real estate agent in DuBois
This is where I come in. We'll schedule a time to get together so we can talk about your real estate needs and get an idea of your plans for the future. We'll talk about everything from neighborhoods, school districts in the DuBois area, the mortgage and housing industries, to any other economic factors that may potentially affect your purchase today or in the future.

I can also assist you in getting started on your loan. I partner with some of DuBois's best mortgage professionals, so you're in great hands. They will help you figure out which type of loan is best for you, as well as help you get approved.

Step 3 – Start looking
After our first meeting, I'll start looking for homes on the market that are a good fit for you. I'll research most of the houses and exclude the bad ones, and then we'll schedule appointments to tour the houses at a time that's convenient for you.

When we view houses, I'll show you the positive features, as well as negative ones. I'll even ask you to point out what things you like and dislike. Oftentimes, buyers update their must-have list as we view houses and some features become far more crucial than others. If such is the case, I'll look through all the listings another time and narrow it down to the home you've been wishing for.

Step 4 – Know the housing market
An agent's awareness of the DuBois housing market is an imperative factor in your home search. And I can assure you I'm mindful of all the neighborhoods and schools, and I will alert you to some areas are "hot" and demand immediate action and the ones that are "cold" and allow for more examination.

When we tour houses, I'll make sure to communicate when the seller's list price has room for negotiation and also when I know the house is "priced to sell." Trust your instincts and make sure you ask your agent plenty of questions, as any REALTOR in DuBois will claim to understand the market. If it seems like they don't know everything, contact me at 8143712100 or e-mail me at , and I'd be glad to answer any questions you have. My knowledge of the market will help you stay a step above the rest throughout the entire deal.

Step 5 – Find your dream house
We'll find your dream house in DuBois, and when that happens, I'll meticulously develop your real estate purchase offer. The offer will be made to suit your needs and the home. We'll include some contingencies, such as getting financing, completing the home inspection, and a clear title.

Upon presenting your offer, you'll likely need to present "earnest money." This is a cash deposit made to the home seller to secure the offer to buy the property. The amount is typically put towards the closing costs. If the offer is accepted by the seller, we should close within 30 to 60 days afterward. This allows plenty of time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate the deal
A lot of contracts aren't closed on the first offer – it's pretty common to receive a counter offer. Don't let this intimidate you. We'll talk over whether or not to agree to the counter offer, present our own counter offer, or decline the seller's offer and go on.

Market conditions determine how aggressively we negotiate the deal. We'll also work within your budget. And when it's all said and done, we'll formulate a contract that's best for you.

Step 7 – Get a loan
Upon completing the deal, you'll start working with your lender to close the loan. This won't take much time at all if you're already pre-approved, but you'll need to stay in close contact with your mortgage lender. And I'll manage all the property information your lender needs to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
Your mortgage lender will provide you with a Loan Estimate (LE) of your closing costs within three days of receiving your application. You'll get a Loan Estimate (LE) detailing closing costs from your lender within three days of accepting your loan application. The estimate rests on the loan amount, and RESPA requirements require that it has to contain all closing costs and fall within a strict range of accuracy. I'll review the estimate and let you know if it all looks okay.

Then it's time to close on your home. This will likely happen at a title company or escrow office and will probably be a smooth and calm event.

Step 9 – Move in
Congratulations! Now you can move into your new home. Enjoy it. And if you need anything or have any questions, simply contact me at 8143712100 or e-mail me at .