Buyers: Buying real estate is a complex matter and can be especially confusing for the first-time homebuyer. Do yourself a favor and learn as much about the process as you can before you begin. There are plenty of resources on the Internet and you may also be able to research the real estate process by attending community-sponsored classes.  However, having lived in the area for 26 years, a small brokerage like mine can help you in your search with the personal, patient attention you need at such a critical time.

Sellers: With your first phone call or email, you will find that I will treat you honestly, fairly and provide you with all the information you need to price your home properly to sell in this highly competitive market.  I look forward to working with you.   Within hours after you decide on what price your home should be listed, it will be entered with color photos in the MLS, on Realtor.com, this website and ads written for local advertising.  Marketing your property will be a top priorty.

Financing: That means determining how much money you can raise for your down payment and how much you can afford to pay on a monthly basis. Go to a lender to find out the size of mortgage you qualify for and get pre-approved. Better yet, use a mortgage broker to find you the best mortgage rate possible. When calculating the costs of home ownership, remember to plan for homeowner's insurance, property taxes, private mortgage insurance (if required), utilities, repairs, and maintenance.  An excellent source for you might be :

Mortgagerates.com

which can supply you with current rates and give you comparative quotes on up to five different lenders.

Inspections:  Once you've found your new home have it inspected by a qualified Home Inspection Company to make sure there a no major structural or mechanical issues to be concerned about. 

Several firms in the area:

Tiger Home Inspections

Coastal Home Inspection

National Property Inspection

It's up to you to tell your agent what you want, what towns you are interested* in and how you want to be involved in the home search process. Some buyers prefer their agents to handpick properties for their consideration; others want to receive the hotsheets on a daily basis so they can comb through the new listings themselves. You should listen to your Realtor's advice, but always remember that you're the boss. And speaking of bosses, it's a good idea for ALL decision-makers to visit the properties your Realtor shows you.

*Town information:

KillingworthCt.com

MadisonCT.com

ClintonCT.com

GuilfordCT.com

CT Economic Development Data and Information