New Year’s Resolutions to Be a Savvy Homebuyer

After a chaotic year in real estate full of home buyers scrambling to scoop up properties while prices shot through the roof, economists predict the 2022 market to be slightly more forgiving. Industry groups expect the supply of for-sale homes to increase while home prices rise at a slower rate. However, if you hope to buy a new home this coming year, now is the time to muster up some stamina and a solid strategy. 


Have you been searching for a new home but still feel nervous to jump into the deep end? The New Year is the perfect time to create a realistic and achievable game plan to buy a house. 


While the 2022 market may be slightly easier to navigate than last year’s market, thorough preparation is key for a smooth home buying & closing experience. Read on for True Concept Title’s tips to be a savvy homebuyer in the New Year. 


A pile of money is sitting on top of a laptop keyboard.


Save Up for a Down Payment 


Depending on the cost of the home you want to buy, you will most likely have to take out a mortgage loan from a bank. You will need to have approximately 3-20% of the loan saved up as a down payment and an additional 1-3% for closing costs

 

If you foresee yourself buying a home in the next few years, an effective New Year’s resolution could be a plan to save your down payment in 12 to 24 months. Create a high yield savings account and deposit $500 to $1000 per month by picking up more hours, trading down to a cheaper car, or budgeting better. Over time, you will take a big step closer to your new home. 

 

We want to see you in a new home in the New Year. Call our Tampa-based team at True Concept Title to learn about our mortgage partners and our title, escrow, and closing services.  


You will need to have approximately 3-20% of the loan saved up as a down payment and an additional 1-3% for closing costs. 


Prepare Your Finances for Homeownership   


Before buying a home, you must have a complete picture of your income, expenses, and other finances. Usually, you need to get preapproved for a loan by a lender for an estimate on how much you can spend. Keep in mind that lenders prefer a stable track record of around two years, so don’t make any sudden job or income changes. 


When contacting a lender, have the following information prepared: 


  • Your monthly income 
  • The sum of your total monthly debt payments (auto loans, student loans, credit card minimum payments) 
  • Your credit score and any credit issues in the past few years 
  • How much money you have available to put down 


Make it a New Year’s goal to organize your finances in a way that can be easily understood by yourself, lenders, and agents. Utilize tools such as Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and financial tracking apps to save yourself a headache. 


Secure a Real Estate Agent 

 

As soon as you decide you want to buy a home, find a real estate agent who you can trust and rely on. With a thorough search, you will find the agent who suits your needs. 


Once you’ve found the right person, place your trust in them and heed their advice. They often have the best recommendations for attorneys, mortgage professionals, and home inspectors and better understand the home buying process than anyone. 


Learn More > The Transition from Renting to Ownership 


Act Swiftly  


If you think a home is perfect, chances are someone else may too – especially in a hot market. If you’ve fallen in love with a particular property, don’t hesitate to make an offer or risk losing it. The New Year is a better time than ever to stop procrastinating on purchasing a property. 


Enjoy the Homebuying Process 


Although the home buying process can be a daunting experience, remember that it’s also supposed to be fun. This is an exciting time in your life; lighten the pressure as much as possible by leaning on experts in the field. 


We’ll work with your real estate team so you can relax and take time to explore your new neighborhood. Check out the local scene—dining, parks, and entertainment—you’ll get a better feel for the area and perhaps make some new friends while doing so. 


In a Seller’s Market? > Tips for Buyers 


A notebook , pen , envelope , and earrings are on a table.


Purchase Title Insurance through True Concept Title 


We understand that this is a monumental purchase. For first-time buyers, this is a big life moment as well. Once you’ve found the perfect home and are ready to close the deal, you should do everything in your power to ensure ownership is properly and legally transferred to your name. 


Title insurance protects your home investment against potential legal issues that may arise during closing. 


When the time comes to close and make the home yours, remember you have a choice in title. True Concept Title is here to protect you throughout the homebuying process. We support you with top-of-the-line title insurance and escrow services. Let us provide our convenient mobile closing services


Contact our Tampa, Florida-based national title, and escrow specialists at True Concept Title today — 813-263-7168!  

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Introduction: Preparing for Your Closing Day Closing day is the final step in the home buying or selling journey, transitioning you from negotiations to home ownership. While it’s an exciting milestone, it can also bring a mix of stress and potential anxiety. Preparation can help ensure this big day is straightforward and stress-free. At True Concept Title Company, we aim to give you the knowledge and tools to streamline your closing process. Organize All Necessary Documents Having all necessary documents systematically organized is key to ensuring an efficient closing day. These typically include: Purchase Agreement: A critical document that outlines the terms agreed to by both parties. Proof of Homeowner’s Insurance: Lenders require proof of insurance to confirm that the property is insured, protecting your and their investment. Government-issued identification, Such as a driver’s license or passport, to verify your identity. Closing Disclosure Statement : Provided at least three days before closing, this statement outlines your loan's final terms, payments, and costs. Financial Documentation: Recent bank statements, pay stubs, or other financial information as your lender requires. Properly organizing these documents prevents last-minute scrambles and ensures that all parties move through the process fluidly. Consider creating a checklist and using a secure folder to keep everything organized and accessible. Also, please make sure to have copies of your documents in physical and digital formats in case anything needs to be found. Review the Closing Disclosure Carefully The Closing Disclosure is a document indicating your mortgage's final costs and terms. Receiving it at least three days before closing gives you ample time to review thoroughly: Interest Rate and Loan Terms: Confirm that these match the earlier Loan Estimate you received. Itemized Fees and Closing Costs : Validate all entries to ensure accuracy and reasonableness. Cash Needed at Closing: Verify the required amount and ensure it aligns with your financial arrangements. Discrepancies or unexpected figures should immediately be brought to your lender or title company’s attention. By addressing these questions early, you can avoid potential stress on closing day. Conduct a Final Walk-Through A final walk-through is your last opportunity to inspect the property before taking ownership. This step is typically scheduled 24 hours before closing and allows you to confirm that: Repairs : Any modifications or repairs agreed upon have been completed satisfactorily. Condition of the Property: Check that the property is in the expected condition, with no significant changes since your last visit. Presence of Fixtures and Appliances: Ensure that everything included in the sale is present and functioning. If concerns arise during the walk-through, raise them with your real estate agent right away to find a resolution before the closing meeting. This proactive approach can mitigate any last-minute surprises on the big day. Ensure Funds Are Ready On closing day, you will need to have all necessary funds ready to facilitate the transfer. Here’s what to consider: Exact Amount Required: The Closing Disclosure outlines the exact cash required at closing, which may include your down payment and closing costs. Payment Method: Most transactions require a wire transfer or certified cashier's check. Personal checks are typically not accepted, so you must ensure you have the proper format. Bank Arrangements: Give yourself ample time to arrange for fund transfers. Plan for potential delays in processing, and confirm payment methods with your escrow company. It’s crucial to coordinate with your bank and escrow officer to ensure the financial transaction goes off without a hitch. Confirm Your Appointment Time and Location Logistical details like the time and place of your closing should be confirmed well in advance: Location: Typically held at your title company’s office or your real estate attorney’s location. Confirm this with your agent ahead of time. Punctuality: Arriving on time allows the process to begin smoothly and prevents unnecessary delays. If your closing involves electronic signatures or remote participation, ensure you understand the technology requirements and have a reliable internet connection. This preparation helps facilitate a seamless virtual closing experience. Prepare for Signing Documents Closing entails signing a multitude of documents, each vital for formalizing your purchase. Key documents you’ll encounter include: Deed of Trust or Mortgage Document: This legally binds your property to the loan agreement, protecting the lender's interest. Promissory Note : Details your commitment to pay back the loan you’re receiving from the lender. Affidavits and Declarations: Various legal affirmations that may require your signature. They typically confirm the accuracy of the information provided during the loan application process. As you prepare to sign these documents, take your time to read each one carefully. It’s important to understand what you are agreeing to before signing. If you encounter any terms or clauses that are unclear, don't hesitate to ask questions for clarification. This is your opportunity to ensure that you are fully informed about your mortgage and the associated obligations. Anticipate Closing Costs Closing costs can significantly impact your finances, accounting for 2% to 5% of the purchase price. It’s crucial to understand what these costs entail, as they can include: Loan Origination Fees: Charges by the lender for processing the loan. Appraisal Fees: Required to assess the property’s value. Title Insurance: Protects against potential claims against the property title. Attorney Fees: If required in your state, these cover legal services for reviewing documents. Inspection Fees: These may include pest inspections and other assessments depending on the type of loan. Please make sure you know about all closing costs detailed in your Closing Disclosure. Understanding these costs allows you to plan your budget effectively and avoid any financial surprises on closing day. If needed, discuss with your lender whether any of these costs can be rolled into your loan amount to ease the upfront financial burden. Prepare for Any Last-Minute Changes The closing day can sometimes bring unexpected changes or needs for adjustments. Be prepared for any last-minute requests or changes in documentation as the closing process unfolds. Whether it’s a last-minute adjustment in figures or a request for additional paperwork, remaining flexible and responsive can help navigate these challenges. Keep communication lines open with your real estate agent, lender, and title company. Quick responses and collaboration can help manage any unforeseen complications that may arise. Celebrate Your New Home Once you’ve signed all documents and the transaction is complete, take a moment to celebrate your achievement. Closing day marks not only the culmination of a significant commitment but also the beginning of your journey as a homeowner. Collect your keys, take a few moments to relish this milestone, and envision the memories you will create in your new space. Conclusion: Embrace the Excitement of Closing Day Closing day is a remarkable occasion that signifies the fulfillment of your goal of homeownership. By following these tips, you’ll be equipped to handle the process smoothly and confidently. From organizing documents to preparing for financial obligations, thorough preparation can minimize stress and enhance the closing experience. 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