How to Confidently Buy a Home in Another State
All real estate agents have an area they primarily work out of, for myself it’s the North Shore. But what most people forget is that we have connections! Even if you aren’t looking to buy a home locally, your local agent can still be a great resource to have. I can connect you with a trusted agent in another state, or country, to help you through your home buying process. Buying a home in a new area can feel unsettling, but following these steps and working with a trusted real estate advisor will ensure a smooth process!
To get started, do your research. Whether you are looking to relocate or invest in a vacation property, you’ll want to narrow down your desired area. Then it’s time to dive in. I can connect you with an expert in the field, one that specializes in your desired location. Together you can find the perfect property!
When working with the local expert they will be able to educate you on what homes are selling for in the different neighborhoods. Your agent will provide you with recent home sales so you can understand what your money will buy you.
When you find homes you are interested in, listing photos are great. However, utilizing different resources like Google Maps and Google Earth can help you see what the neighborhoods looks like, and where it is in relation to schools, stores, public transportation and the like. These are good tools to use before you plan an in-person trip.
Working with one of my colleagues in another area will give you peace of mind. They will have a team of professionals from inspectors to attorneys when the time is right.
The agent I connect you with can familiarize you with the local real estate. They will be able to provide you with information about the immediate and surrounding areas, and will be able to talk with you about local schools, community activities, restaurants, shopping and more! Your agent can give you a clear picture of what daily life will be like, and how you can connect with your new community. When you find properties you are interested in, you can set up virtual tours with your agent and go along for the ride! With a detailed virtual tour, you’ll be able to get a much more rounded picture of your desired listing than you would with just listing photos.
If at all possible, organize a trip to your future home! If you’re just checking out the area, be sure to visit downtown and some of the quieter neighborhoods. You’ll get a good feel for the environment, what the homes are like, and it can help you figure out what you do and don’t want in a home or neighborhood. If you’ve chosen a home already, make efforts to attend the home inspection. This can help you make an informed decision, and possibly gain valuable insight into how to maintain your home!
Whether you’re buying local or out of state, I’m here to help! This is a big decision, so let me connect you with an expert in the area who can help guide you smoothly through this process. Let’s get started!