You’ve decided that you would like to buy a home and your first thought is…”I wonder what homes are available?”
So, you start searching online for homes and find several that sound wonderful. Only thing is, when you inquire about some of these homes a few of the agents don’t return your call or
answer your email, in some cases you are told that the home is already sold or in other cases the agent tells you that the seller has accepted an offer but you can look at it anyway. Hmmmm…this is not as easy as it should be!
Real estate agents have the option of writing a property description that is available for the consumer and a second description that is only available for agents to view on their MLS computer. What you see online is the “consumer view” and as a result, often times you are NOT getting the full story.
For example, the local MLS (multiple listing service) that covers our area has a property status called “CCS” (Contingent offer Continue to Show) . To you, the consumer, the property is presented as “Available” but in reality, the seller has already accepted an offer and the typical selling processes are under way but not yet completed such as a buyer’s full mortgage approval, the property appraisal done by the buyer’s lender, a private home inspection, etc. So, there really is no point of looking at properties with a “CCS” status because for all practical purposes, they are already sold and the buyer and seller are just waiting to close the transaction.
In addition, as a consumer you may not be able to tell if a property is being sold as a “short sale” or a foreclosure simply because again, what you see online may not include all of the available information.
Lastly, some online sources for Dearborn and Detroit area real estate and homes for sale are terribly behind in updating their data. As a result, you will find old listings that are no longer available!
So, what is the best way to search for a home? Even if you are just getting started in the process the best way to find a home is to get an experienced, knowledgeable real estate agent to help you. (since you are reading this blog post you have already found a great agent) Once your exact price range, property type, amenities etc. have been established, your agent (Steve Hatfield) can set you up to receive home listings via email that meet your current needs and criteria. Those that don’t meet your needs and criteria are eliminated from your search saving you a ton of time and energy!
For assistance with your Dearborn Michigan area home purchase Contact Steve Hatfield today.
This article was written by: Vicki Maule, CENTURY 21 Curran & Christie
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