Buying a home is one of the most rewarding parts of your move to the Sarasota Bradenton area.  It's also one of the most challenging.  If you're a first-time buyer, the process may seem overwhelming.  Even if you've done it before, each move presents challenges.  So, getting all the advice you can from an expert is clearly an advantage.

Knowing how much to offer is the most difficult part of buying a home.  Comparing the sales prices of a list of recently sold properties of comparable size, location and amenities will tell you whether this property is reasonably priced for its area. As an example, properties on Longboat Key cost more than similar units on Siesta Key.

     If the property has been on the market for a while, the owner may accept a below-market offer.  But, if the property is desirable and other buyers are interested in it too, the seller may just reject your offer wasting everyone's time.  As your Buyers Agent, I can give you good advice on the right price to offer.

Get real estate advice from a Licensed Professional Buyers Agent.  Don't count on Cousin Mike who was a Realtor® in Maine 20 years ago.   Realtors representing the Seller won't necessarily tell you all you need to know, either.  Acting exclusively as your Buyer's Agent, I am required by law to tell you everything I know that could affect the value of the home.

Sarasota Florida is very much "in demand."  Property prices here, while still attractive, have been going up consistently.  Properties you saw last year are no longer available at that price.  If you want a home here, buy it NOW before the price goes up even more.

Realize what a difference your "Down Payment" can make.If your down payment is at least 20% of the purchase price, you will avoid paying for "Mortgage Insurance."  In addition, some mortgage providers give a lower interest rate if you make more than the minimum required down payment.

Get "pre-approved" for a mortgage. The process you will go through with a mortgage broker or bank will not only let you know how much hme you can afford.  It will also improve your chances of getting the home or condo you want at the price you offer.  Sellers are more likely to accept an offer a bit lower than they had hoped for if they know that you're "already approved" for a mortgage.

Don't make big purchases or move money around before applying for a mortgage Approval for a mortgage depends, in part, on the ratio of your income to current debt.  Buying a new car or a home theater system could put your debt ratio over the limit.  Similarly, during the approval process, the mortgage broker will review your "sources of funds."  It helps if your checking, savings and investment accounts remain stable and in the same place for a few months before you apply for a mortgage.

On Resale Properties, get a "Professional Inspection" before closing  A professional home inspection will uncover any major faults in the home. Then, the Seller, not you, pays to correct any problems.

For New Construction, decide what you want and stick with it.  Builders' reps in Sarasota, Siesta Key or Longboat Key may try to sell you upgrades, some of which add little, if any, value to your home when you eventually re-sell the home.  I know which upgrades add value and which don't.