HOME BUYER’S BOOK
We’re going to help you become a new homeowner!
The Dave Iliff Team 302.234.6044 www.americanhomefind.com 7234 Lancaster Pike, Suite 100A, Hockessin, DE 19707 • em: dave@iliffteam.com • direct: 302-234-6073 • fax: 302-235-4793 • web: www.americanhomefind.com © 2013 - 2014 Dave Iliff
Table of Contents Introducing the Dave Iliff Team at Patterson-Schwartz………………………………………page 4
Buyer Survey……………………………………………………………………………………...page 5 Why Buy?.........................................................................................................................................page 6 The Home Search Process………………………………………………………………………..page 9 Q&A: Questions commonly asked by buyers……………………………….…………………..page 16 Mortgage information…………………………………………………………………………….page 30 The Home Inspection……………………………………………………………………………..page 35 Moving Checklist………………………………………………………………………………….page 36 Client References………………………………………………………………………………….page 39 Notes (pages for you to make notes)...…………………....……………………………………...page 40
7234 Lancaster Pike, Suite 100A, Hockessin, DE 19707 • em: dave@iliffteam.com • direct: 302-234-6073 • fax: 302-235-4793 • web: www.americanhomefind.com © 2013 - 2014 Dave Iliff
THE HOME SEARCH PROCESS Before we begin the Home Search Process,
the Dave Iliff Team will:
Put you in touch with a reputable lender who will review your financial position to determine the price most suited to your ability to pay and comfort level. Pre-qualifying will help you in the following ways: 1. Interest rates are usually locked in for a set period of time. You will know in advance exactly what your payments will be on offers you choose to make. 2. You won’t waste time considering homes you cannot afford. 3. You can select the best package without being under pressure. 4. Seller may choose to make concessions if they know that your financing is secured, and this may make your offer more competitive.
Estimate purchase costs and explain them in detail.
Explain financing alternatives to help you select the one best suited for you.
Discuss home styles, availability, location, schools and any specific benefits you desire.
Explain the Offer to Purchase Agreement in detail and the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).
Prepare a market report, pricing recommendations and an estimate of equity from the sale of your present home, if applicable.
Provide you with information on all properties currently for sale, including new and pre-owned homes, single family homes and condominiums.
7234 Lancaster Pike, Suite 100A, Hockessin, DE 19707 • em: dave@iliffteam.com • direct: 302-234-6073 • fax: 302-235-4793 • web: www.americanhomefind.com © 2013 - 2014 Dave Iliff
THE HOME SEARCH PROCESS During the Home Search Process, the Dave Iliff Team will:
Assist you with most homes offered by “For Sale By Owner (FSBO).” A homeowner trying to sell their home themselves is usually doing so in hopes of saving the commission. However, most are not aware of the many pitfalls that can, and do occur as well as how to handle them. Many times a homeowner will work with an agent, even though his home is not listed, if the agent introduces the buyer to the property. If you should see a FSBO and want the advantages of our services, please let us contact the owner and set the appointment.
Show you new homes as well as pre-owned homes if you desire.
Introduce you to local builders
to discuss building your next home. We can work with most builders and can get all the information you need to make any decision, but we will need to accompany you to the property on the initial visit. By letting us help you with builders, you get all the services offered in this presentation, proper representation and those offered by the builder as well. You’ll get more, but you won’t pay more for it.
Continued on next page. 7234 Lancaster Pike, Suite 100A, Hockessin, DE 19707 • em: dave@iliffteam.com • direct: 302-234-6073 • fax: 302-235-4793 • web: www.americanhomefind.com © 2013 - 2014 Dave Iliff
QUESTIONS and ANSWERS Everything you’ve always wanted to know about buying a house but were afraid to ask! QUESTION: What should I be looking for the first time through? The house you ultimately choose to call home will play a major role in your family’s life. A home can be an excellent investment, of course, but more importantly, it should fit the way you really live, with spaces and features that appeal to everyone in the family. At each home, pay close attention to these important considerations:
Is there enough room for you now, and in the near future?
Is the home’s floor plan right for your family?
Is there enough storage space?
Will you have to replace the appliances?
Is the yard the size that you want?
Are there enough bathrooms?
QUESTION: Is an older home as good a value as a new home? It’s a matter of personal preference. Both new and older homes offer distinct advantages, depending upon your unique taste and lifestyle. New homes generally have more space in the rooms where today’s families do their living, like a family room or activity area. They’re usually easier to maintain, too. However, many homes built years ago offer more total space for the money, as well as larger yards. Taxes on some older homes may also be lower. Some people are charmed by the elegance of an older home but shy away because they’re concerned about potential maintenance costs. Keep in mind an older home that has been totally updated and renovated can have an “effective age” closer to a new home yet have the charm that many people like. Consider a home warranty to get the peace of mind you deserve. A good home warranty plan protects you against unexpected repairs on many home systems and appliances for a full year after you move in. 7234 Lancaster Pike, Suite 100A, Hockessin, DE 19707 • em: dave@iliffteam.com • direct: 302-234-6073 • fax: 302-235-4793 • web: www.americanhomefind.com © 2013 - 2014 Dave Iliff
THE HOME INSPECTION It’s easy to make sure the home you’ve chosen is a smart buy.
By having a home inspection, the home’s vital systems are checked. A home inspection allows you to purchase your home with confidence. The Dave Iliff Team will help you set one up after you have chosen the home you like. We recommend the following minimum standards when choosing an inspector: 1. Membership in ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) and adherence to its Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. 2. Written report at the time of inspection or emailed later in the day.
Items on your inspection report will include: Foundations, Basements & Structures
Basement floor and walls, proper drainage and ventilation, evidence of water seepage.
Interior Walls, Ceilings, Floors, Windows & Doors
Walls, floors, ceilings, stairways, cabinets, and countertops.
Exterior Siding, Windows & Doors
Exterior walls, windows, and doors; porches, decks, and balconies; garage.
Attic
Structural, insulation, and ventilation information.
Roof
Roof type and material, condition of gutters and downspouts.
Fireplace
Notes about the chimney, damper, and masonry.
Interior Plumbing System
Hot and cold water system; the waste system and sewage disposal; water pressure and flow; and hot
Garage
Doors, walls, floor and opener.
Electrical System
Type of service, the number of circuits, type of protection, outlet grounding, & load balance.
Appliances
Includes a wide range of built-in and other home appliances, smoke detectors, and
Central Heating System
Energy source, type of cooling equipment, capacity, and distribution.
Lot & Landscaping
Ground slope away from foundation, condition of walks, steps, and driveway.
7234 Lancaster Pike, Suite 100A, Hockessin, DE 19707 • em: dave@iliffteam.com • direct: 302-234-6073 • fax: 302-235-4793 • web: www.americanhomefind.com © 2013 - 2014 Dave Iliff
DAVE ILIFF Dave Iliff Team Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate 7234 Lancaster Pike, Suite 100A
Visit us on the web at: www.AmericanHomeFind.com 7234 Lancaster Pike, Suite 100A, Hockessin, DE 19707 • em: dave@iliffteam.com • direct: 302-234-6073 • fax: 302-235-4793 • web: www.americanhomefind.com © 2013 - 2014 Dave Iliff