Making the process of buying easier for you.

 

MAKE SURE YOU KNOW YOUR CREDIT HISTORY

Many people do not realize that their may be serious mistakes in their credit history that can affect their ability to obtain a mortgage.

Credit bureaus collect information from many financial sources, banks, retailers, etc. And, even in these days of computers, such credit histories can contain errors. Fortunately, you can ask for a copy of your credit history. If you think there's a mistake, you have the right to provide clarifying information and ask that the report be corrected. Such corrections can be made in a matter of days.

Even if there are not mistakes, you will still be wise to have a copy of your credit history. The bank is going to want to see it. This is routine. When they get their copy.

There are a number of steps to getting mortgage financing. You can help the loans process along by being prepared in advance to answer any questions, or to volunteer explanations for points where your history appears weak.

CHOOSING WHERE TO LIVE

If you read other parts of the site before reaching this page, you may have already gathered that Salt Spring is a beautiful place to live. Or you may have read about the island in the media elsewhere. So you like the idea of Salt Spring. but where?

On Salt Spring, we have everything from small, suburb-like developments to extensive waterfront or mountaintop estates. You may have someone right next door, or be surrounded by a hundred acres. What suits you?

Make sure you understand who your neighbours are and what kind of area the house is moving into. Do you want lot's of light for a garden, or do you prefer a cozy, in-the-woods feel. If possible, visit the area at different times of the day. Listen for dogs, neighbours who love loud music, and other sounds. You may want to talk to the neighbours and get their opinion - check how happy they are with the area. Consider staying a day or two in a B&B if there's one right there.

Like anywhere in the modern world, there is some crime. But anyone coming from a major city will probably find it trivial. Being in a relatively small community means people are not invisible in the same way. This means an enormous relief for many.

Make sure amenities are located close enough for you. Although the island is not huge, some people prefer to have the store a few minutes away, rather than twenty. And if you need fast Web access or your business, check it is available where you are thinking of buying.

HAVE THE HOME INSPECTED

Buying a home is one of the most important investment decisions you will make in your lifetime. As such, it makes sound financial sense to enlist the services of a qualified home inspection company to ensure your home is as solid and secure on the inside as it is on the outside.

A home inspection will determine the structural and mechanical soundness of your home. Your home inspector will identify existing and potential problem areas, suggest practical low-cost solutions, and provide estimates regarding costs for any work required. Shortly after the inspection has taken place, a report summarizing the findings is generally provided to the potential purchaser.

By commissioning a home inspection prior to purchase, you're protecting both yourself and your investment, as well as buying a little peace-of-mind.

Home inspection costs often range according to size, age, and location of the home. Your Royal LePage sales representative can recommend a reputable home inspection service or arrange for a home inspector to visit your property.