10 Deadly Mistakes Buyers Make When Purchasing a Home
From John Damiano
John Damiano from The Providence Group of Atlanta will be speaking at the October 2, 2010, “How to Profit from Foreclosure and Other Real Estate Investments” with Ilyce Glink, Andy Heller, Ricky Novak, Shannon Judd, Wes Moss and others. Make sure you buy your tickets now!
We use the “10 Deadly Mistakes” from Buffini and Company when working with our residential buyers – it’s a quick outline on what to expect when buying home. The issues mentioned in the article are also applicable to investment properties, with a few modifications.
The major difference between purchasing the home a buyer will live in and purchasing an investment property is the buyer’s emotional connection to the space. A home buyer‘s goal is to make the house a home; an investor’s goal is to turn a profit. This is not to say that the home buyer isn’t interested in a successful business deal, but the investor’s reason for purchase is purely financial.
Financially the purchase of an investment property requires more in-depth preparation, possibly including a CPA, an Attorney, and a Certified Financial Planner. Researching the total and ongoing costs like property taxes, utilities, yard maintenance, and the HOA for example is absolutely necessary.
When purchasing an investment property the investor must also factor in the exit strategy before purchase. A typical exit strategy for a residential investment property is either to flip the property to a home buyer or turn it into a rental.
Most importantly, even if the investor is buying the investment as-is, they would be wise to have all necessary inspections done before closing. Doing so will enable the investor to have fewer surprises down the road.
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10 Deadly Mistakes Buyers Make When Purchasing a Home
Mistake NO. 1
Choosing a Real Estate Agent who is not committed to forming a strong business relationship with you.
HERE’S HOW TO AVOID IT
Making a connection with the right real estate agent is crucial. Choose a professional who is dedicated to serving your needs – before, during and after the sale.
Mistake NO. 2
Making an offer on a home without being pre-qualified
HERE’S HOW to AVOID IT
Pre-qualification will make your life easier – take the time to talk with a bank or mortgage representative. Their specific questions with regard to income, debt and other factors will help you determine the right business model for your investments. It is one of the most important steps in developing a strategy for creating wealth.
Mistake NO. 3
Not knowing the total costs involved.
HERE’S HOW to AVOID IT
Early in the investment process, ask your real estate agent or mortgage representative for an estimate of closing costs. Title insurance and lawyer fees should be considered. Pre-pay responsibilities such as homeowner’s association fees and insurance must also be taken into account. Remember to examine your settlement statement prior to closing.
Mistake NO. 4
Limiting your search to ads or the internet.
HERE’S HOW to AVOID IT
Many homes listed in magazines or on the internet have already been sold. Your best course of action is to contact a real estate agent. They have up-to-date information that is unavailable to the general public, and they are the best source to help you find the home you want.
Mistake NO. 5
Thinking there is only one type of investment strategy out there.
HERE’S HOW to AVOID IT
Buying a home is a process of elimination, not selection. New properties arrive on the market daily, so be open to all possibilities. Ask your real estate agent for a comparative market analysis.
Mistake NO. 6
Not considering long-term needs.
HERE’S HOW to AVOID IT
It is important to think ahead. Will your home suit your needs 3-5 years from now? How about 5-10 years?
Mistake NO. 7
Not following through on Due Diligence.
HERE’S HOW to AVOID IT
Make a list of any concerns you have relating to issues such as crime rates, schools, power lines, neighbors, environmental conditions, and resale value. Ask the important questions before you make an offer on a home. Be diligent so that you can have confidence in your purchase.
Mistake NO. 8
Not having a home inspection.
HERE’S HOW to AVOID IT
Trying to save money today can end up costing you tomorrow. A qualified home inspector will detect issues that many buyers can overlook.
Mistake NO. 9
Not examining insurance issues.
HERE’S HOW to AVOID IT
Purchase adequate insurance, including buyer’s Title Insurance. Advice from an insurance agent can provide you with answers to any concern you many have.
Mistake NO. 10
Not purchasing a home protection plan.
HERE’S HOW to AVOID IT
This is essentially a mini insurance policy that usually lasts one year from the date of sale. It usually covers basic repairs you may encounter and can be purchased for a nominal fee. Talk to your real estate agent to help you find the protection plan you need.
Buy your tickets to the event here: http://howtoprofitfromrealestateinvesting.eventbrite.com/ Don’t forget our VIP ticket which includes the Podcast of the event and a special investing eBook package.
Buy your full-price tickets now for 50% off.
OR
Save $45 on the VIP ticket, which includes the Podcast of the event and a special investing eBook package.
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