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September 20, 2022 • Buying
Assembling your Real Estate Dream Team: When it comes to buying your next home, you want the right players on your side.
By Kate Barker
When it comes to buying your first home, there’s a lot to think about. There’s budgeting, searching, making an offer, negotiating, conditions, closing, and actually moving. It’s an exhausting ride of emotions and it’s one of the biggest purchases most people make in their lifetimes. So with all that going on, you want to make sure you assemble the right team to make the process as smooth as possible! But who exactly do you need on your side?
Mortgage Broker
If you’re going to start looking at homes you’ll want to know what you can actually afford. Mortgages are products you’ll want to shop for like anything else. Having a professional on your real estate team can help you navigate all the options available and make sure you end up with the best fit for your situation. Brokers typically have access to products from big institutions, banks, monoline lenders, and private lenders, so they can take time to find the right fit for you. They also know the ins and outs of the markets, so they can provide third party advice throughout the duration of your mortgage.
Real Estate Agent
Your agent is the face of your home-buying journey, so you want to find the right fit. They need to understand your hopes, your dreams, what you can’t live without, and what you’d like in the ideal situation. They’ll show you homes that meet your criteria and budget. The right agent has insider knowledge of the market, and they’ll be on the hunt for a home that fits your needs. They also know the home buying and selling process like the back of their hand, and they’ll be your go-to when it comes to making an offer, negotiating terms, laying down a deposit, and actually closing the deal.
Lawyer
A real estate lawyer will guide you through the final transaction and make sure the property transfer is legal and binding. They are the ones who actually take your money, and they give it to the seller’s lawyer. They’ll also help with paperwork, title transfer, and they’ll have knowledge about local bylaws and requirements. If you’re buying within the national park, it’s imperative you have a lawyer who understands how the land lease works and the unique aspects of buying in Banff.
