Greater Binghamton Realtors
 
 
Welcome to Easy Event Planning's directory of Greater Binghamton realtors and real estate companies in Binghamton, New York.  Use this page to find a realtor to assist you with first time home buying.  Select a real estate agent below to view a detailed profile.  Please assist us in growing this free resource and let these Greater Binghamton realtors know you found them here!
 
 
Featured Realtors
McKinney & Associates - Binghamton NY (see advice below)
 
 
 
Realtors
McKinney & Associates - Binghamton NY (see advice below)
 
 
 

Easy Event Planning does not personally endorse the products or services offered by Greater Binghamton realtors at this site.

 

MCKINNEY REAL ESTATE Knows FIRST TIME HOME-BUYING

The Formula For Home Buying:  Preparedness + Opportunity = Success
At this time in your life you're making many decisions.  Some are easy. Some are a little more difficult.  Sometimes you need a professional to help guide you to the right resources.

No cost to you
Did you know that realtors for by the buyer and the seller are compensated by the seller?  Typically 6% of the sale of the house goes toward realtor fees, whether or not you allow a realtor to do the work for you!  In fact, using a realtor can actually save you money, as his/her knowledge of the market will you better negotiate a fair price. 

Choosing a realtor
For a first time home buyer choosing the right Realtor can make all the difference in your experience.  A good agent will help you through all the steps of the home buying process so you are prepared for success. 

How do you find an agent?  Go to open houses, look at local advertising.  Don't be afraid to take suggestions from lawyers, lenders, financial planners, friends, etc.  DO interview Realtors before making your selection.  Although your relationship with your Realtor may not be the longest professional relationship you experience, it may be one of the most important.  A good agent will be with you every step of the way.  Make sure you are totally comfortable with the Realtor you choose.

A good Realtor will let YOU do all the talking.   In order to best serve you, your Realtor needs to know what YOU want.  This is true whether you are buying or selling a home.

Financing
Your next step is making sure you are financially prepared.  There is more to buying a home that paying the mortgage.  There are many costs associated with buying a home and a little solid guidance will prove invaluable.

Good credit history is one of your most important tools.  It will open up many different financing options.  For at least one year prior to purchasing a home you should assure that every credit card bill, rent check, car payment and other debt is paid in full and on time.

Many Realtors will recommend that their clients start the mortgage process before bidding on a home.  This is called "pre-approval".  Not only does "pre-approval" let listing brokers know you are financially able to go through with the purchase, it enables you to set your monetary limit based on solid financial knowledge, not guesswork.

Getting the right home for you
Alright, you are finally ready to look at homes!  But Wait....don't forget your lists!  "Now come on", you're thinking, "I've done the bank thing, I've found a Realtor I like and now I need to make a list?"  Well, yes.  Actually, you should have two lists.  The "NEED" list and the "WANT" list.  Each buyer is different so it's important that you list the features and benefits you want in a home.  Number of bedrooms, bathrooms, yard size, garages, square footage, distance to schools are all things you should consider.  Also, keep in mind what your needs will be several years down the road and how this should influence your decision.  At this point utilizing your Realtors web site, such as www.Mckinneyrealestate.com, you can search the MLS and find houses which interest you.

Allow your Realtor to help you refine your search.  By prioritizing your needs and wants you'll be able to eliminate those homes which will be unsuitable for you.  By using basic standards like general location and affordability, you can focus on homes that offer the features which are most important to you.

Your realtor will walk you through the entire process
Once you've found "The House", your Realtor's work really begins.  Your Realtor negotiates your sales contract.  Once a price has been agreed on you will need to apply for a mortgage and hire an attorney.  If you are not sure who to use your agent can recommend lawyers and lenders they have had success with in the past.  Then your Realtor will schedule inspections and help you resolve any issues which might arise afterwards.

As the entire process moves along you will need to prepare for your big move.  Be prepared to be flexible as your closing date approaches.  This date is flexible and is often not set until the day before the big event.  Your Realtor can guide you on issues such as giving notice to landlords, how to transfer utilities, etc.  Your attorney will inform you where and when your closing will take place.  Make sure that you arrive with your picture ID and you signing hand limber and ready.

Congratulations!!!!  The closing is over and the house is yours!!

Remember, the right Realtor can make your home buying experience one of expectations and excitement.  Make sure you choose someone who will listen and guide you through every step of the process.  Your Realtor will prepare you and present you with opportunities so that you will be successful in your search for a home. Preparedness + Opportunity = Success!