Finding just the right home for you and
your family is one of the most important things that you’ll ever do. That’s why
your first step along the path toward your dream home should be to find a real
estate professional who will provide you with the kind of service you deserve.
There are many different types of real estate salespeople. Although all are
regulated by the province, some work part-time and represent a few properties,
while others are well-established, full service real estate brokers. Don’t
settle for anything less than the best! During the somewhat stressful business
of buying a home, you’ll want someone at your side who is knowledgeable,
reliable, skilled, and experienced. You’ll want someone who will go the extra
mile to make sure that your family finds just the right place to make memories
in the coming years.
What Does a Real Estate Broker Do?
The answer to this question depends very
much on the real estate professional you choose. Most will have a certain set
of client services that they perform. These might include:
- Advising you about mortgages and financing, and helping you to determine
what price range you will be able to afford. Informing you about any home
buying programs that may apply to you.
- Setting up appointments for you to view properties that fit within
your budget, your priorities, and your family’s needs.
- Taking you to the properties and showing you through the homes.
- Providing you with pertinent information about Brampton
neighbourhoods. REALTORS® should be able to point out advantages such as good schools or recreation
facilities, as well as disadvantages such as heavy traffic areas or a dearth of
grocery stores. Sometimes you want to know information that’s not easily
available, such as which neighbourhoods have services available in languages
other than English, or which areas may be subject to more development in the
near future. Your broker should know the city well enough to answer your
questions, or help you to find the information.
- Helping you to make an offer on a home, negotiating with the
seller if possible.
- Being present during the home inspection and making note of any
problem areas for further discussion.
- Guiding you through the paperwork when your offer is accepted,
walking you through contractual agreements; helping you to choose pertinent
clauses, and making sure that you know what you’re signing.
- Coming with you for the closing process and making sure that
everything goes smoothly.
Choosing a Broker
Obviously, finding the right broker is a
crucial part of your search for the right home. You can start by exploring
realty websites for the Brampton area. Look for companies that list a range of
homes that seem like they would be a good match for your family’s needs and
budget. Once you’ve narrowed your search, contact prospective real estate
professionals and arrange to meet them. Find out whether you communicate well,
and whether or not they have some good ideas for you. Before signing a
contract, ask for a recommendation from a recent client, and check to see that
the broker is registered with the Real Estate Council of
Ontario, the professional association that holds
members to ethical standards.
Contact a full service Brampton area REALTOR®, and
take the first step on the path to buy your dream home!