Buyer Resources

• This Month in Real Estate

  This Month in Real Estate is a monthly video news series that offers an inside look at the national real estate market. Each edition provides a snapshot of the numbers and trends that drive the real estate market, as well as expert opinion and analysis. For information on your local real estate conditions, please contact us today!

   

  Click here to view the current month's video.

  
  

• Deciding How Much You Can Afford

  Your lender decides what you can borrow but you decide what you can afford. Lenders are careful, but they make qualification decisions based on averages and formulas. They won’t understand the nuances of your lifestyle and spending patterns quite as well as you do. So, leave a little room for the unexpected – for all the new opportunities your home will give you to spend money, from... [ Read More ]

  
  

• Creating Your Home Wish List

  Before the home search begins, your real estate agent will want to know as much as possible about the features and amenities you desire. To help your agent better serve you, analyze what you want and what you need in a home’s features and amenities. Features: Age: Do you prefer historic properties, or newer ones? Style: Do you have a special preference for ranches, bungalows, or... [ Read More ]

  
  

• Opting for New Construction

  Whether to buy an existing home or have one built is yet another decision to make during the home-buying process. If you decide to go with new construction, a real estate agent can be a powerful advocate in your corner as you negotiate upgrades, a move-in date and other terms with the home builder. Below are some basic pointers to prepare you for the journey ahead. Selecting a builderShopping for... [ Read More ]

  
  

• How Can a Real Estate Agent Help Me?

  Seven main roles of your real estate agent

   

  A Buyer’s Real Estate Agent:
  

  1. Educates you about your market.
  2. Analyzes your wants and needs.
  3. Guides you to homes that fit your criteria.
  4. Coordinates the work of other needed professionals.
  5. Negotiates on your behalf.
  6. Checks and double-checks paperwork and deadlines.
  7. Solves any problems that may arise.
  
  

• Eight Important Questions to Ask Your Agent

  Qualifications are important. However, finding a solid, professional agent means getting beyond the resume, and into what makes an agent effective. Use the following questions as your starting point in hiring your licensed, professional real estate agent: Why did you become a real estate agent? Why should I work with you? What do you do better than other real estate agents? What process... [ Read More ]

  
  

• Ready to Begin Your Search for Your Dream Home?

  Contact the Franke Hopkins Team today and we will help you begin your search for your new home!

   

  We look forward to working with you!

  
  

• Eight Steps to Buying A Home

  1. Decide to buy. Although there are many good reasons for you to buy a home, wealth building ranks among the top of the list. We call home ownership the best “accidental investment” most people ever make. But, we believe when it is done right, home ownership becomes an “intentional investment” that lays the foundation for a life of financial security and personal choice.... [ Read More ]

  
  

• Location, location, location

  Location, location, location Where you buy not only affects the home's current and future value, but it also affects your lifestyle. Your agent will be able to conduct a more targeted home search if you outline your preferences in neighborhoods and nearby amenities. Here's a checklist of items you should consider.* Urban, suburban or rural* Commute time* School districts* Desirable... [ Read More ]