Do you want to buy a home in Pennsylvania? Before you do, know the steps of buying a home in PA!
Harrisburg-Carlisle, Pennsylvania made it to the list of the Top Ten Cities in which to buy a house.
Good news for you if you are buying a home in Pennsylvania. Do you have your house hunting must-have checklist? Do you know the ins and outs of how to buy a house in PA?
Buying a house in PA is going to be similar to buying a home in other states, but let’s look at the steps involved. You’ll be on your way to owning a house in Pennsylvania.
Steps to Buying a House in PA
You’re ready to jump into the joys of homeownership? It doesn’t have to be a long, drawn-out affair. Doing things the right way with the right professionals will lead to a smooth transfer into the real estate market.
1. Figure Out What You Can Afford
No matter which of the 50 states you choose to call home, this should be your first step in the home buying process.
Are you already a homeowner? Find out the market value of your current home. How quickly will it sell? Is there a certain amount of money you need to get out of the sale of your home?
How much equity do you have in the home? How much money do you have to put towards a new home?
If you’re selling a home or a first-time homebuyer, it is important to talk to a lender. Get pre-qualified for a mortgage to have an idea what you can afford.
You’ll want to take that a step further as you get further into the process and get pre-approved for a loan. This will show that you are a more serious/less risky buyer.
2. Find a Knowledgeable, Qualified Pennsylvania Real Estate Agent
Using a local real estate agent offers many benefits including their expertise in the area.
Real estate agents have all the information you need to complete the purchase of a home and the best part is their commission is paid by the seller.
Your agent will steer you in the right direction when it comes to finding a home inspector, a lender, a title company, etc.
A good real estate agent will be with you from the time you put in the offer to the closing on the home.
3. Finding the Right Home
Your real estate agent will help you find the perfect home in an area that works for you.
Remember location, location, location. Don’t fall for a home based on aesthetics alone. Make sure it is a desirable location.
When you do find “the one”, make sure you take a look at the Seller’s Property Disclosure statement. Pennsylvania state law requires sellers to disclose comprehensive information about the physical condition of the home.
Easy Peezy
Now that you know all of the ins and outs of buying a house in PA, you’ll be on your way to Pennsylvania homeownership. Check out our blog with lots of advice for your new home from how to add value to how to know when to sell when that time eventually comes around.
