There's a lot of noise in the real estate industry and a lot of choices. All Real Estate agents are NOT created equal.
We leverage all of the benefits of a tech-heavy approach, with the dedicated personal service that buyers rely on throughout the home purchase process. We make sure you're covered on both sides, so that you're the first to know when the right property get listed and receive the best service when it comes to navigating the purchase process.
There's nothing quite as thrilling as putting the finishing touches on your very own brand new home, everything spec'd out to perfection. The Wickland Groups very own Steve Wickland is a licensed builder with decades of experience buying, selling, and building brand new homes.
Your home search is only as good as the information that its based on. We've created one of the most accurate and updated home search tools available in Michigan. Data on this site is typically 3-5 days more updated than the other sites, including the nationwide "big guys"!
Before getting a mortgage or any kind of loan, you should always check your credit. According to the law, you're allowed to receive one free copy of your credit report per year. You can do this by visiting Annualcreditreport.com. Scores range from approximately 300 to 850; generally, the higher your score, the better loan you'll qualify for. Don't forget to check your report for errors. If there are any, dispute them. It may help your credit score. You can also check your credit score for free at www.creditkarma.com.
You can calculate how much you can afford by starting online. There are several online mortgage calculators that will help you calculate an affordable monthly mortgage payment. Don't forget to factor in money you'll need for a down payment, closing costs, fees (such as fees for an attorney, appraisal, inspection, etc.) and the costs of remodeling or furniture. Remember that you don't always have to put down 20 percent as your parents once did. There are loans available with little to no down payment. An experienced home loan expert can help you understand all your loan options, closing costs, and other fees.
To find the right mortgage lender it’s best to shop around. Get recommendations from your friends and family and check with the Better Business Bureau. Talk to at least three or four mortgage lenders. Ask lots of questions and make sure they have answers that satisfy you. Make sure to find someone that you are comfortable with and who makes you feel at ease.
Once you have the right mortgage lender, make sure you at least get a pre-approval. Qualifications are only a guess based on what you tell the lender and are no guarantee, whereas a pre-approval will give you a better idea of how big a loan you qualify for. The lender will actually pull your credit and get more information about you. However, you could even take it one step further by getting an actual approval before you start home shopping. That way, when you're ready to make an offer, it will make the sale go much quicker. Besides, your offer will look more appealing than other buyers since your financing is guaranteed.
Make a list of the things you'll need to have in the house. Ask yourself how many bedrooms and bathrooms you'll need and get an idea of how much space you desire. How big do you want the kitchen to be? Do you need lots of closets and cabinet space? Do you need a big yard for your kids and/or pets to play in?
Once you've made a list of your must-have's, don't forget to think about the kind of neighborhood you want, types of schools in the area, the length of your commute to and from work, and the convenience of local shopping. Take into account your safety concerns as well as how good the rate of home appreciation is in the area.
Now that you've found the home you want, you have to make an offer. Most sellers price their homes a bit high, expecting that there will be some haggling involved. A decent place to start is about five percent below the asking price. You can also get a list from your real estate agent to find out how much comparable have sold for. Once you've made your offer, don't think it's final. The seller may make a counter-offer to which you can also counter-offer. But you don't want to go back and forth too much. Somewhere, you have to meet in the middle. Once you've agreed on a price, you'll make an earnest, which is money that goes in escrow to give the seller a sign of good faith.
There are many different types of mortgage programs out there, but as a first-time home buyer, you should be aware of the three basics: adjustable rate, fixed rate and interest-only.
Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) are short-term mortgages that offer an interest rate that is fixed for a short period of time, usually between one to seven years. After that, the interest rate can adjust every year up or down, depending on the market. These are good for people who don't plan on living in their home very long and/or are looking for a lower interest rate and payment.
Fixed-rate mortgages are more traditional and offer a fixed interest rate (and thus a fixed monthly payment) for a longer period of time, usually 15 or 30 years, though they're available in 20 or 25-year terms. These are good for people who like a predictable payment and plan on living in their home for a long time.
Both fixed and adjustable rate mortgages can have an interest-only payment. What this means is that for a certain amount of time during the loan term, you're allowed to pay only enough to cover the interest portion of your payment. You can still pay principal when you wish, but don't have to if your budget is tight. There is a myth that with interest-only mortgages, you don't build equity. This is not necessarily true since you can build equity through home appreciation. The benefit to interest-only mortgages is that you increase your cash flow by not paying principal.
Remember to ask your mortgage lender or mortgage banker lots of questions about which mortgage is right for you and your situation.
Make sure you get a home inspection before you close. It will be well-worth the money spent since it ensures the property's structural soundness and good condition.
Setting the closing date that is convenient to both parties may be tricky, but can certainly be done. Remember that you may have to wait until your rental agreement runs out and the seller may have to wait until they close on their new house.
Be sure you talk to your mortgage banker to understand all the costs that will be involved with the closing so there are no surprises. Closing costs will likely include (but are not limited to) your down payment, title fees, appraisal fees, attorney fees, inspection fees, and points you may have bought to buy down your interest rate.
You've got your mortgage, closed the deal and now it's time to move in! Whether you use a mover or not is up to you, depending on your financial situation and how much stuff you have to move; perhaps also, whether you have a lot of friends willing to help you move. Either way, you're done with the home buying process! Just start unpacking and start enjoying your first home! Buying a home for the first time doesn't have to be a hassle if you're prepared and you know what to do and when to do it. Choose an experienced home loan lender and a friendly, knowledgeable real estate agent-they are the key to helping you have a smooth home buying experience!
Welcome to this spacious and inviting 2550 square foot home in the heart of Clarkston, Michigan. Boasting 3 bedrooms (with a possibility of a fourth) and 3 full bathrooms...
Listing courtesy of Spencer Real Estate, LLC.
Discover this ranch on a serene 2-acre lot that has a total of over 2900 square feet! The main part of the home features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, a spacious all-season sunro...
Listing courtesy of KW Platinum.
An Exceptional Floor Plan in Prime Location ** Step Inside to be Greeted by Inviting Open Layout Characterized by Soaring Ceiling and Transom Windows Flooding the House ...
Listing courtesy of Real Estate One-Oxford.
Welcome home to the ideal blend of luxury and comfort in Thistle Down Farms. Located in one of the most desired Neighborhoods in Saline Schools, this home rests on a prem...
Listing courtesy of Firm Foundations Realty Group.
Showings begin Tuesday March 19, 2024. Open house Tuesday March 19th 5-7pm and Wednesday March 20th 5-7pm. Welcome to 28345 Alger located in Madison Heights! Lamphere sch...
Listing courtesy of DOBI Real Estate.
Welcome home to this rare Royal Oak Bungalow! This home boasts an updated 250 sq ft addition to the kitchen, updated quartz counter tops (2019), and new stainless steel a...
Listing courtesy of Brookstone, Realtors LLC.
Welcome to this charming Colonial nestled in the heart of West Bloomfield within the prestigious Bloomfield Hills School District. Situated in the sought-after Pine Lake ...
Listing courtesy of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Kee Realty Bham.
Welcome to your dream ranch nestled on over three acres of picturesque land, boasting a finished walkout basement, attached garage and quality finishes at every turn. Ste...
Listing courtesy of National Realty Centers, Inc.
Sought after expanded brick bungalow in Pembroke Manor. Renovate/add-on or build new. Perfect potential to add primary bath upstairs & create a spacious primary suite. ...
Listing courtesy of Howard Hanna Birmingham.
New construction home ready to be built by Kadilli Homes! Located in the desirable Vinsetta/Northwood community, this custom home offers a luxury floor plan suited for an...
Listing courtesy of KW Metro.
Sprawling ranch on a park-like setting! Additional comments to follow, as well as professional photos on or before 3/22
Listing courtesy of Real Estate One-Troy.
Welcome to this 4 bed 2.5 bath home nestled on a quiet street moments away from Buhr Park. Recently renovated from top to bottom, this residence offers a perfect blend of...
Listing courtesy of Cornerstone Real Estate.
WELCOME HOME! This beautiful ranch nestled in Lathrup Village was just updated in 2024! When you first walk in you will be blown away be craftsmanship and attention to de...
Listing courtesy of Prep Realty.
Welcome to your dream home! This exquisite property boasts four spacious bedrooms and 3 1/2 bathrooms, offering ample space for comfortable living. With a convenient thr...
Listing courtesy of Oracle Realty.
Welcome Home to this beautiful 2-story home. Perfect floor plan for entertaining family and friends. Stunning kitchen with granite counters and ample amount of cabinets. ...
Listing courtesy of Max Broock Realtors.
Don't miss this rare find: great price 2000 sq/ft 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath brick ranch in Prime Troy Location- close to schools & Park, Open floor plan-beautiful kitchen wit...
Listing courtesy of RE/MAX First.
Thoroughly updated, pristinely-kept bungalow on an exceptionally deep lot in a premier location within a mile of Downtown Royal Oak! Fenced and fully equipped for dogs an...
Listing courtesy of @properties Christie's Int'l R.E. Birmingham.
This charming conveniently located South Lyon Cape Cod boasts 2100 sq ft of spacious living spread across its well-designed layout. With excellent curb appeal and an over...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty Ann Arbor.
Hard to find 3 bedroom Northfiled Hills Condo attached garage and upgraded kitchen cabinets, hardwood floors in foyer, kitchen, dining and lav. Natural fireplace in great...
Listing courtesy of Prudential Realty, LLC.
Welcome home to this brick RANCH home in ideal location. Over 1400 sq. ft. including 3-bedrooms and 1-1/2 baths. Nice floor plan with Florida Room, Living Room, Family Ro...
Listing courtesy of Real Estate One-W Blmfld.
IDX provided courtesy of Realcomp II Ltd., via Real Estate Company. Copyright 2024 Realcomp II Ltd. Shareholders. IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing and that the data is deemed reliable but not guaranteed accurate by the MLS.