Common questions or concerns...

How do I start the process?
The best place to start is to get pre-approved from your bank or professional mortgage consultant to determine how much you can afford. Once you have been approved it is ideal to sit with a professional real estate consultant, like one of us, to discuss what type of home / location you desire. During a consultation, you may also feel free to discuss any other concerns and interests in your buying experience.

How do I find the right home for me?
The best way is to really think about what your needs and wants are. Consider your top five needs and wants and write them down. When you sit with a real estate consultant they will be happy to analyze your requirements and help you make a suitable decision.

How much can I afford as a first time home buyer?
Once again it is best to talk to your bank or professional mortgage consultant to determine how much you can afford. Let them know if you have a source (i.e. parents) helping you with the monthly payments, deposit, or down payment.

How do I know I'm not buying an over priced home?
As professional real estate agents we always educate our clients and provide them with the closest comparables that have sold in the last 60 or 90 days (going back further depending on the market). Once you have seen what the comparables have sold for you can then decide how much you want to pay for the specific house you are interested in. Education and knowledge are always power with negotiating a real estate transaction.

Closing costs?

Typically your major closing costs include your Lawyers Fees, Land Transfer Tax, Moving costs etc. For a re-sale home the costs are typically 2.25% - 2.50% of the final price of the home you purchased and for new homes it is usually around 4% to 5%.

Land Transfer Tax?
For every purchase one must pay land transfer tax. As a first time home buyer you are entitled to a partial refund. Typically the lawyer will take care of this for you. Click here for a land transfer tax calculator.

Home Inspections?
We always recommend doing a home inspection on every purchase. Home inspections are a valuable tool to learn more about your purchase. The home inspector will educate you on general maintenance and things to look out for in the future. He/She will spend about 1 to 3 hours going through the home and looking for any areas of concern. The major items that a home inspector will look at are the furnace, windows, and the roof.

Why you should hire us as your first time agent?
You should hire us because we always put our client's needs first and educate them along the buying process. We are always working for you at your convenience and we have the network and contacts to make your first buying experience a pleasant one. Please think of Jason Mansingh and Keller Williams Real Estate Associates when buying your first home!