subject: Shopping For and Purchasing Connecticut Homes for Sale [print this page] Shopping For and Purchasing Connecticut Homes for Sale
Are you considering purchasing a home in Connecticut? From agent advertisements to statewide MLS listings, many homes in Connecticut are for sale. The Nutmeg State offers housing options for all tastes. Most towns have a variety of affordable and luxury homes, while the landscape is dotted with urban centers, suburban neighborhoods, and rural sections with farmland. As major cities New Haven and Hartford are home to companies with many job opportunities, many in Connecticut commute to work by highway. Towns in the center of the state, in particular, are easily accessible by the major highways Interstates 84, 91, and 691 and are less than a half hour from either city.
If you are thinking about checking out homes for sale in Connecticut, your decision to buy a property is the first step of the process. A decision, however, should not lead to a directionless search. In fact, even before you look for an agent or get pre-approved for a mortgage, think about what your home should have. Are you looking for a better location, such as a safer neighborhood, a town with a better school system, or a town closer to your job? Should the house have a certain amount of rooms or surrounding land? Are you purchasing property because you are, as a first-time homebuyer, tired of renting, or are you planning to rent out the property or diversity your investment portfolio? Consider and keep track of all aspects and features you want even before looking at homes for sale in Connecticut.
After deciding to buy, you need to prepare to face the real estate market, which often means organizing your finances. Your credit report, in particular, should be pulled, and you need to be familiar with your history, as this information impacts whether or not you are qualified for a mortgage and the type of rate you will receive. Additionally, research and find the right lender for a mortgage, and get pre-approved. Have a letter stating the amount of a pre-approved mortgage before looking at any homes.
Before you look at homes, find an agent, who will often show you more properties and streamline the ownership process. Your agent is involved as you shop for a home and, taking your needs into consideration, may offer real estate suggestions.
Once you have found a home, a few additional steps need to be taken before you move in. Secure the property with an escrow, and do an inspection and appraisal. A home inspector should examine the property, checking electric, plumbing, heating, and air conditioning systems, and he or she will provide a written report for repairs. An inspector, however, does not do an appraisal. An appraiser, similarly, establishes the property's value, taking into consideration any repairs. Once these steps are complete, you can move into your new Connecticut home.
