Cincinnati Real Estate Buyers Resources
Buyer’s Checklist
- You are already on the right path by visiting our website. Do a property search at Cincinnati MLS or simply contact an agent at Kopf Real Estate to simplify the process.
- Familiarize yourself with the Cincinnati metropolitan area. Narrow the range of communities or neighborhoods you would prefer. Drive and ask around. Visit links on our Resources page to find information on Cincinnati area education, culture, business, government and transportation. Our experienced agents are always available to answer questions.
- Decide what you really want and write it down. Ask yourself what your priorities are and where you are willing to compromise. Is the size of the yard more important than the location? Is proximity to work more important than school district? Is the exterior style of the home important? Do you prefer brick, wood, stone or siding? Do you want new construction or is an established neighborhood more important? Do you have specific bedroom, bathroom or square footage requirements?
- Pull a credit report to ensure its accuracy. Clear up any mistakes before looking for loan approvals.
- Talk to a mortgage lender to see what you can afford.
- Do not incur any additional debt. Save any big purchases for after the purchase of your new home.
- Visit open houses…they are free and you have no obligation. It is a great way to see what you do and do not like. Be sure to let the agents at the open house know if you are working with a Realtor. You can access a list of currently scheduled open houses by clicking on our property search button.
- Look at different kinds of homes. Even if the homes do not look like what you want from the outside, it is always good to have them as a comparison to other houses.
- Now that you have done your homework, begin a serious property search of the Cincinnati MLS using your prioritized criteria. Contact us today about representing your interests as a buyer. (Remember the listing agent of a home represents the interests of the seller.)
- If you are also selling a house, see our Seller’s Checklist for more tips.
Buyer’s FAQs
What do I need to do at my new home before I move in?
Call utilities, phone and cable services to set up start dates for services. Many companies charge a reconnection fee if there is lapse time between when the previous owner ends service and when you start your service. Be sure to coordinate with the occupancy date to start your services.
Why should I work with a Realtor as a buyer?
At Kopf Real Estate we will make the process of buying a home simple and enjoyable. We will let you know what you can afford and can educate you about the entire home buying process. Our experienced agents are familiar with the process, can access information on all properties, will set appointments and work through all paperwork with you. We will evaluate features of a home for value as well as for resale. Additionally, we will obtain the average billing for utilities and figure out the monthly costs for the any property with which you have interest. Finally, we will work through the negotiation process on your behalf (the listing agent works on behalf of the seller) and monitor the progress through closing and beyond, so that your needs are met.
I am a first-time home buyer. What should I expect?
The process of buying a home for the first time can be a daunting experience for many people. Kopf Real Estate works diligently to make our buyers feel comfortable throughout the entire process. In general there is a 10 step process that we follow: 1) Meet with an agent to discuss the process, what criteria are necessities for your home & what areas you are interested in; 2) The pre-approval process through a qualified mortgage lender; 3) The initial home search… we reiterate here the importance of having an open mind and a broad scope of areas to look at to decide what/how much home you can afford for the amount you want to spend. 4) Narrow down the home search and eventually find your home; 5) write a contract; 6) the contract is accepted; 7) Inspections on your new home; 8) finalize the loan process; 9) Set up all utilities; 10) Closing and occupancy. Of course, when you meet with a Kopf professional, we will go into more detail on each step of the process so that you are comfortable. The goal is to make this process simple and enjoyable.
Do I need a buyer’s agent if I am buying new construction?
There is no better way to protect yourself during the home buying process than to have a Kopf Real Estate Agent represent you. Whether an old home or brand new, a Kopf agent will be able to protect and negotiate in your best interests. When buying a new construction home, it is important to have a liaison between you and the builder that knows what to ask, how to negotiate, and if things are finished/built correctly.
What is a Home Warranty?
A home warranty is private insurance insuring a buyer against defects (usually in plumbing, heating and electrical) in the home that has been purchased. The period of insurance varies and both new and used homes can be insured. Often this becomes the Seller’s expense as part of the contract.
How much house can I afford?
Take a look at our various mortgage calculators to see what you can afford.
Why do I need to do a Home Inspection before buying my home
It is important to do a complete home inspection as well as a termite inspection before buying any home. This ensures that you have fully investigated the property in question and that you are aware of any potential problem areas before you choose to proceed with the closing. If you are not satisfied with the results of your home inspection and your contract was written contingent upon a satisfactory home inspection, you can get a release from the contract. In essence, a home inspection protects a buyer and without one you would be purchasing your home under a “buyer’s beware.”
