My wife and I have moved 20 times in 38 years of marriage.  After a 20 year career in the Air Force and after finally landing my dream job, United Airlines Pilot, we moved to the Charlotte, NC area in August 1992.  Since moving to Charlotte area, we have owned three homes.  I think that qualifies me to give advice to first time home buyers. 

  1. Interview several Realtors.  Find one that engenders trust and reliablity.  Give them a couple of opportunities to communicate with you.  See if they do it in a timely manner.  Ask questions…lots of questions.
  2. Go to a lender.  I really recommend that you go to several lenders.  Again evaluate how timely they communicate with you.  a.) Determine the max program you can qualify for allowing you to buy the maximum home.  b.) Now determine what you think your “comfort level” is for monthly payments.  Be sure to include not only PI (principle and interest) but include TI (taxes and insurance).  (Note: After you select the home of your dreams, be sure to ask about homeowner association dues.)  Begin the application process and get prequalified.  This will give you bargaining strength when negotiating for your new home.
  3. Take a look a listings.  Time spent in the office with your Realtor reviewing areas, subdivisions, and homes will save you time on the road.
  4. Consider the commute.  While you will generally get more home for the dollar the further away from the city you go, you will also spend more time in the car than enjoying your new home.  Take the time to map the commute on the internet.
  5. Consider your other interests.  Where is your new home in relation to sport activities, parks, recreation activities, clubs, theaters, etc..
  6. Review the schools in the local area.  While this might not be important to you now, you may have children in the furture.  And if you do not have children in the future, you may sell you home to someone who does.  Consider the schools!
  7. Rely on your Realtor to help guide you through the process.  And that is why step number one above is so important.

I tell new Realtors that there are three secrets to becoming a great Realtor…”LISTEN, LISTEN, LISTEN” to your clients…But don’t be afraid to speak up.  You are responsible to look out after your client’s best interests over all others…including your own.  Never forget that.

Respectfull,

Rufus Hutchinson

North Carolina Realtor, South Carolina Realtor

Homes in the Charlotte, NC Real Estate Area