The temperatures are very brisk today (low 20s), and spring can't come too soon for most of us. But the reality is that if you are looking to take advantage of the first-time homebuyers' tax credit of $8000 or the move-up buyers' tax credit of $6500, you don't have much time to find your dream home.
Potential homebuyers have until 4/30/2010 to have a signed contract and they must close by 6/30/2010.
If you have not yet begun the process, there are several important steps that you must do before you can sign that contract, including:
- Seeing if you qualify for a mortgage. Speak with a top-notch mortgage expert to find out how much you can afford to spend on a house, what types of loans are available to you, how your credit impacts your ability to buy a house, etc.
- Determining your requirements in a home. Today's homebuyers are internet-savvy, and most begin their search on-line. There is a wealth of information covering virtually all aspects of home-ownership, and the options are plentiful. Thinking in advance about what you need in a home will help make your search more fruitful.
- Finding a Realtor who will help you achieve your goals. A Realtor acts in your best interests as your agent. When you first meet with a Realtor, you should spend time discussing your wants and needs, how the process works, and what your roles and expectations will be. Your Realtor should be someone you trust and want to work with. A skilled Realtor is your resource for helping you sort through options, keeping you informed of all changes, monitoring all deadlines and details, protecting your assets, and make the decision-making process more streamlined for you.
This process takes some time, but fortunately you can still meet this deadline. There are great houses on the market now, prices are very attractive, interest rates are still low, and the tax credit is a great incentive. NOW IS A GREAT TIME TO BUY A HOME! I will be more than happy to help you with your search. Contact me and we can get started.
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Peggy Chirico, REALTOR®
Serving the Greater Hartford Area
Prudential CT Realty
peggychirico@gmail.com
860-748-8900
If you are buying or selling a home in Hartford County or Tolland County, please call me, email me, or visit my website. I would be happy to help you with your home search or provide a market analysis for your home.
Find your dream home now!
Peggy--I love your optimism for spring, but let's hope it brings the buyers out in force no matter what the weather is.
Happy New Year!
Mary
Thanks, Mary - Happy New Year to you, too. I am looking forward to having a great year!