Tips for finding a home:
The first step to finding a new home is to know your finances. What you think you can afford and what the bank thinks might be totally different. Gather your financial records and meet with a lender to get a prequalification letter spelling out how much you are eligible to borrow. Most sellers and Bank foreclosures require a preapproval letter with an offer to purchase. It is also important to create a budget so you know how much you are comfortable spending on housing each month. You want to live in your home not live for it.
The next step is to pick your target area. The best way to learn about an area of interest is to go there and drive around. You can also visit government web sites like www.rocklandgov.com . Here you can learn about the school systems, demographics, local parks and all that your target neighborhood has to offer. You can also Google an area and see what comes up.
The type of home you buy is based on a number of factors. Once you know what you can afford, the next step is to decide what type of home to purchase. You can buy a single family home, multi-family home, condo, or coop. Each choice has its advantages and disadvantages. You can discuss your options with your realtor and see what works best for you. Your future plans may play a big role in what you purchase today.
Once you choose the type of home to purchase, the next step is to get your priority list out. Use this list to evaluate each property you see. Chances are you will not find a home with everything you want. Concentrate on the things that you have to have in your new home and can’t be changed in the future. You can always change décor but you can’t always add a bedroom or bathroom.
Rockland County Housing Statistic (Activity last 30 days source MLS) Houses Condos
Total Inventory: 947 334
Under Contract: 87 38
Title Transfer: 88 30
