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Looking For A Home?
Contact Me For More Information
Thirty years of experience tells me there is more than one home in the Dayton area that will meet all your needs. Here's how I can help you find just the right one:
Planning Your Search
The best place to begin a complete home search in the Dayton market is at www.IrongateRealtors.com. With over 7,000 listings updated every day as well as virtual photo tours for most properties www.irongaterealtors.com is the area's most complete home search tool. In addition to searching for listings, let www.IrongateRealtors.com introduce you to the various communities, arts, cultural activities, sports and entertainment opportunities that make the Miami Valley such a wonderful place to live. Specific information sheets on regional public and private schools, utilities, etc. are also available for easy download.
Once you have decided on the price range of the homes you wish to consider, and the areas you would like to visit, I can provide you with complete print-outs on all homes currently on the market that fit your criteria. I am also able to provide you with lot dimensions, current taxes, tax appraisal values, square footage and other valuable information for each home under consideration.
If you are planning to finance your new home, I can help you “pre-qualify” for a mortgage. You will learn how large a mortgage loan is customarily available given your income, current mortgage rates, any special local programs you may qualify for (such as first-time buyers programs, etc.) and what your monthly mortgage payments will be at various rates of interest. All this can be done easily in cooperation with a Southern Ohio Mortgage Company loan officer, conveniently located in every Irongate office. (Southern Ohio is an affiliate of Wells Fargo Home Mortgage). This is what we mean by "one-stop" services!
Viewing Homes
When we have selected a potential home, or a number of homes, I will then contact the seller’s agent to arrange a private showing for you as quickly as possible. There are a few local “ground rules” observed by all members of the Dayton Area Board of Realtors regarding the viewing of homes. The most important are:
- As the seller is normally responsible for any commission due to a Realtor for the sale of their property, you, the buyer, are able to use my services, knowledge, experience and resources at no cost.
- I can show you any property listed by any member of the Dayton Area Board of Realtors. Dayton does not allow "exclusive listings".
- It is very important to remember that I must accompany you “across the threshold” of any home that is listed by another Realtor. This includes Open Houses, as well as showings by appointments. If not, and you have not made it clear to the Realtor showing the home that you are working with me, I lose the ability to represent you, the buyer, in any transaction concerning that property. Ouch.
- Irongate also sells new homes. Building your own custom home is a real option in the Miami Valley and most builders are happy to cooperate. I know some good builders in the area.
- Occasionally, I may suggest a “For Sale By Owner” home if it meets your search criteria. My goal is to help you view all available properties, not only those marketed by other Realtors.
When you view a property, rely on me to draw your attention to is most important features, good and bad. In addition, we will be sure to:
- Check the Residential Property Disclosure to ascertain the seller’s knowledge of the property. Remember, this statement of condition is no substitute for conducting our own inspections. Does the interior of the home lend itself to your lifestyle? Additionally, look at the setting.
- Check the condition of the walls and ceiling, window seals, painted surfaces, counters, etc., sliding or bifold doors, floors,bathroom caulking, plumbing, electrical system, carpets, drapes, etc. (These are but a few of the things to look for!)
- Most importantly, does it feel like home? Only you can decide what the “potential” of any house may be for you and your family.
Writing the Purchase Agreement
Once we have found the home you want, I will help you draw up a purchase agreement using a standardized contract. No one likes surprises. The agreement will indicate the amount you wish to pay, your preferred closing date, the inspections you wish performed, occupancy date and other negotiable items. You can rely on me to help you put your best foot forward in these negotiations. Remember, few offers are immediately accepted. A counter offer, or series of counter offers, may be required.
Ordering Inspections & Applying for a Mortgage
Once the purchase agreement is signed, we have a specified period in which to perform any inspections agreed upon. These inspections are at your expense. I'll be happy to supply you with a list of qualified inspectors. Although neither Irongate nor I can guarantee the work of others, these contractors have been used with satisfaction in the past by me, many Irongate agents and clients.
Closing on Your New Home
At the closing you receive title to your new home. Occupancy may or may not immediately follow, depending upon the terms of your purchase agreement. (In the Dayton area it is not customary for occupancy to follow at the time of closing.) You may also wish to take out title insurance (and other options) at this time as well. Rest assured, I will explain the entire closing procedure well in advance so that your closing will proceed smoothly and quickly.
Congratulations!
Whether it is the first, second or one of many, there is nothing quite as exciting as a new home. I want to make this a totally enjoyable experience, from beginning to end. If, in the future, you decide to move, please remember me when it comes time to sell your home. But for now, let me be the first to say: “Welcome, Neighbor!”
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