How do I start the home buying process

I now have 2 DSs and it's time for us to be out of our 1 br coop! :) what's thevbest way to start the process? TIA

Re: How do I start the home buying process

Get prequalified/preapproved for a mortgage so you know what $$ you are looking in. Start browsling MLSLI for houses in the area you want....contact a RE agent!

Re: How do I start the home buying process

I would start with looking on MLSLI to determine where you want to live, where you can afford, and make a list of things you want (keep in mind its impossible to get everything you want in a house!).
Then find and agent!

Re: How do I start the home buying process

I agree with previous posters that you should identify what area you want to be in and what you can afford to spend. Talking to a mortgage professional is definitely a step you should take early on -- he or she can let you know what you can qualify for and then help you figure out what you can afford. They can counsel you on what your monthly payment would be at various price points and talk to you about various loan products, interest rates, etc.

You will definitely need a preapproval letter to make an offer, but many real estate agents want to see that you are preapproved before they start showing you properties.

You should find a good agent that you are comfortable with, and decide whether you want to be represented by a buyer's agent (if you are working with an agent, there are different types of relationships you can have).

Feel free to FM me if you have other questions, or if you would like to meet in person or talk over the phone about the process. It definitely helps you know what to expect before you start out and get your ducks lined up in a row.

I work all over LI, but are based in N. Bellmore, so I do most of my work in Nassau (south shore and central areas). Please let me know if I can help!