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Millions of new and existing homes are sold each year. There are many choices with the types of homes that are available at any given time on the housing market. The challenge becomes finding the property which best meets your needs.
The housing market is complicated because the stock of homes for sale is constantly changing. If it were possible to have a complete list of every home for sale at this very moment in a given community, such a list would become obsolete within hours, as new homes become available and properties now for sale are put under contract.
In effect, buyers are looking at a moving target in a marketplace that is never consistent. Because of this, it is important to know as much as possible about the choices in preferred markets by working closely with a local REALTOR® who has a good grasp of the market.
What Are You Looking For?
A home is more than just a collection of bedrooms and bathrooms. Several properties with the exact same amenities may well represent radically different designs, commuting distance, lot sizes, tax costs, interior dimensions, and exterior finishes.
Each of us is different, so it's important to list the features and benefits you want in a home. Consider what is important to you.
Next, it's important to consider your priorities. If you can't get a home at your price with all the features you want, then what features are most important? For instance, would you trade fewer bedrooms for a larger kitchen? A longer commute for a bigger lot and lower cost? A REALTOR® will help you weigh your options and establish your priorities.
Where Should You Look?
All neighborhoods and communities have a special nature that gives them identity and value. One community may be well known for historic homes while another offers both suburban living as well as easy access to downtown office areas.
REALTOR.com features millions of homes online, including tens of thousands throughout Georgia. By any standard, it's the largest source for property information online or off. You can look at homes to contact listing brokers, and you can also search REALTOR.com to find brokers who offer buyer representation services.
How Do You Find A House?
Some buyers like to search REALTOR.com by looking at listings on the basis of location or price, while others prefer to consult their REALTOR® with their criteria and have him or her suggest properties.
Regardless of your choice, it's important to target your search. By using basic measures such as general location and affordability, you can refine your search and focus on homes that offer the most desirable features.
As a guide, you should maintain a file with information on each of the homes you like. You can print out listing pages from REALTOR.com® and then make notes for each one — what you like, questions, REALTOR® contact data, etc. Your REALTOR® will be your best guide when it comes to narrowing your search criteria.
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