1.  Find the right representative
Even if you’re not quite ready to buy, your buyer’s agent (ME!) can be an absolute wealth of information, and can often offer ‘scoops’ on local developments you might not have know about otherwise.  Speak to your agent first and she can be helping to guide you right from the start.

2.  Find out what your price range is
Online mortgage calculators are a good place to start, but as you get closer to being ready to buy, there is no substitute for a written mortgage pre-approval.  Just speaking to your lender is an extremely worthwhile venture – this is the only way to really get an in-depth picture of your overall financial picture and to discover exactly what you can reasonably afford to spend on a home (and possibly on renovating).

3.  Find out what your local market looks like
The internet can be incredibly valuable in doing preparatory research.  Start with your agent – he or she can direct you to valuable resources and immediately start e-mailing you real estate listings that may interest you (or at least give you a better idea of what your needs and wants are).

4.  Find out what your true needs and wants are
Compose a needs/wants list that takes into consideration your local market conditions, your price range, and the advice of your real estate agent.

5.  Find your dream home or condo in Windsor, Rocky Hill, East Windsor, Windsor Locks or elsewhere in Greater Hartford CT!
Once you’re ready to act, you may be surprised by how quickly you can make a decision.  Armed with your pre-approval, a little market knowledge, and your needs/wants list, call your real estate agent, hit the pavement, and when you see ‘the house’, put in an offer. 

With the right team behind you, it really can be that easy!

Your Real Estate Agent (That's me, Lisa Giller!)

A successful purchase starts with the right representative. In fact, once you’ve selected the best agent to represent you, I can recommend other professionals to join your team, taking more of the responsibility off of your shoulders.

Your Mortgage Broker

I've found that a good mortgage broker is worth his or her weight in gold!  Having the right financing is extremely important – it is your money we’re talking about after all! Make sure that your lender and financial representative is someone with whom you feel comfortable, and be wary of any lender who promises you more than you think you can reasonably afford.  Ask me for at least 2 referrals to mortgage brokers in Greater Hartford CT...then compare their best deals.

Your Lawyer

Your home purchase is far too important a transaction to skimp on legal representation at the risk of leaving yourself open to costly future issues. I can recommend a top-notch lawyer that I trust will do a great job for job.  And I'm also his real estate customer!  He's willing to take the time to answer your questions and specializes in real estate law.  And he'll travel anywhere in Connecticut for your closing!

Your Home Inspector

No home inspection is 100% guaranteed, but a few hundred dollars to catch a major problem now is certainly better than many thousands to correct that ‘surprise’ down the road. And home inspections is where I advocate for your interests to be sure you get the best deal possible, helping you negotiate any problems ucovered during the inspection.  Yes, I have a great recommendation here, too.