First Time Buyers

Congratulations, you have made the decision to purchase your first home. Purchasing a home is one of the biggest, most satisfying financial decisions you will make in your lifetime. Homeownership gives you a sense of pride, stability and security. It is time to invest in your future.

Appreciation on Calgary homes is irrefutable; there is no denying that over the years of home ownership your home will build equity. You can borrow against the equity you build and buy the cottage at the lake, send the kids to college or do those home improvements you have wanted to do. Homeownership is investing in your future and in the meantime providing shelter that you can use, improve and then sell.

Purchasing a home is an overwhelming and emotional experience. My job is to make the purchase process a smooth and stress free one. I will do this by providing you ALL of the education and information you will need to make an informed decision. From mortgage and financial options to possession day, I will be there to help you every step of the way.

Things to think about...Are you ready to buy a home?

Do you have the financial resources?
-You must have a 5% of the purchase price ready for the down payment; ideally more. 

Have you met with a Mortgage Broker or your Bank to get a pre-approval in place? 
-They will determine how much of a mortgage you can qualify for. Remember to shop around, as mortgage rates, terms and options vary considerably through different brokers/banks.

Condo or House....???

Condo ownership is a great way for first time buyers to enter the real estate market, as they are most often cheaper then single family homes. Condos offer a low maintenance lifestyle, security, and affordability. Visit the Buying a Condo link for more information; there are many advantages and some things to think about when deciding whether to purchase a condominium. Being a CERTIFIED CONDOMINIUM SPECIALST and knowing the ins and outs of condo ownership, I am able to educate you and give my advice, knowledge, and expertise to help you decide what condo option will best suit your lifestyle & budget.

How to assess what you “need/want” in a home: 

- Proximity to work and recreation – LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION – How far are you willing to commute to work? What will the traffic be like? The cost of fuel?
- Think about your lifestyle – do you want to stay close to the hustle and bustle of downtown or would you prefer the serenity of the suburbs?
- How many bedrooms & bathrooms do you need/want?
- Is parking important – garage/underground/covered/stall parking?
- Do you have children or plan on having children in the home you purchase – where are the nearest schools? Is the area family friendly – are there parks and recreation facilities nearby? Is the area safe?
- What is the distance to amenities, public transportation, major thoroughfares’, schools, parks?
- Do you have pets?
- Do you need a backyard?
- Do you need extra storage space?
- Are you considering a fixer-upper that you can remodel and make your own or would you prefer something that is move-in-ready?
- What the Property taxes be in the area(s) you are considering?
- What will the utilities run you each month?
- If you are interested in purchasing an older home how much work/repair might the home need in the near future – roof, decks, windows, hot water tank, furnace - these are big ticket items that can cost you a lot of money if they need to be repaired or replaced.
I am here to help you find the perfect property that suits your current lifestyle. I will listen to your needs & wants adding my knowledge and expertise so together we can find the best result. My honest no-nonsense approach is refreshing and rewarding change from the traditional methods of selling real estate. I want to make your first home buying experience exciting, pleasurable, and as stress-free as possible.

THE SERVICES OF A BUYER’S AGENT ARE FREE

My job as your Buyer’s agent is to:
• Represent the SOLE interest of you, the buyer
• Educate you on all the aspects of a home purchase so there are NO surprises
• Send you up-to-date listings that match your “needs” and “wants”
• Be available to view properties that interest you at your request
• Supply current market information and assist you in understanding
• Prepare and explain all paperwork
• Be your discreet advocate and expert strategist
• Negotiate on your behalf the best terms, conditions and of course PRICE
• Handle all the behind the scene details of the transaction
• Assist you in finding reliable professional services for your transaction
• Provide you my undivided loyalty
• Promote and protect your best interests at all times

Please visit the links below for more information:
The Purchase Process
Costs Involved
Buyer Information
Buying a Condo