12 Things Every Home Buyer Should Know

Buying a Home Tips

Before You Buy 
Preparing to Buy
Home Buying Process
12 Things to Know
Real Estate Agency 
Buyer Representation

Competitive Market Analysis
A Winning Offer
Home Warranties
Home Inspections
Title Insurance
What is an Escrow?
What happens at Closing
Closing Costs

Mortgage Tips

Selling a Home Tips

Relocating Tips

Real Estate Glossary

1. A good Realtor® is your best investment.  Find someone you like and trust.  Their expertise can make a big difference in the negotiations of your offer that they assist with you.
    
2. Property taxes are determined by your purchase price.  Each State and or County has a set property tax formula.  In Southern California, for the most part, it is 1.25% of the purchase price.  The tax is paid in two installments over the course of a year.  In Texas, the property tax is 3%.  So, be happy it is lower here.
    
3. Property taxes and interest on your loan may be tax deductible.  Check with your Certified Public Account for more information.
    
4. Real estate tends to be on the largest investments that most people make.  Buying property in an excellent investment.  It goes up in value over time.
    
5. When you make a payment on your mortgage, a portion of each payment goes to paying off the principal and the other portion goes to paying the interest.
    
6. Of all the real estate investments you make now and in the future, your home will be one of the few investments that you can enjoy by living in it.  Your other investments will, hopefully generate you a cash flow for your retirement.
    
7. Realtors® follow a strict code of ethics.  Not all real estate agents are Realtors®.  A Realtor® is someone who is a member of the National Association of Realtors®.
    
8. Realtors® cannot receive any compensation from the people that they refer you to according to the Real Estate Settlement and Procedures Act (RESPA).
    
9. Working through a Southern California Realtor®  to purchase a For Sale By Owner home can be very advantageous because someone is looking out for your best interests.
    
10. Your Real Estate professional know who are the best lenders and can refer you to someone for a loan. 
     
11. Ask your Realtor® whom he/she is representing in the transaction.
     
12. Ask your real estate professional what he/she will do to keep you informed.  Your Real Estate professional should provide you with the highest level of service and advice.