You can enjoy peace of mind working with Judy Markowitz and the Energized Realty Group / RE/MAX Millennium -- RE/MAX is the industry leader in experience and service. Here are some tips & services to help you with the process of buying a home.

Buyers' Real Estate Questions and Answers

Home Buyer Tips

Shop for mortgage rates and terms
A difference of even half a percentage point can make a huge difference in how much you pay over the life of a loan. For example, the difference in the monthly payment on a $100,000 mortgage at 8 percent vs. 7.5 percent is about $35 per month. Over 30 years, that's $12,600.

Rate the houses you tour
After touring each home, write down what you liked and didn't like. Develop a rating system which will help you narrow the field down to the house that's the best for you.

Home Buyer Services

Prequalify for a Loan
Being prequalified for a loan determines how much house you can afford. It also allows you to move more swiftly when you find the right house, especially when you aren't the only interested buyer.

Using a Buyer Specialist
A buyer specialist can save you a tremendous amount of time and trouble in searching for the home of your dreams.  But be aware that, in New York State, a buyer specialist is legally responsible for representing the seller's interest in a real estate transaction.  Don't let anyone tell you different -- it's unethical for anyone to put themselves forward as working for the buyer.  That's why you must have your own legal represenation at the time of sale.  Generally, the buyer specialist is compensated by the seller at the time you purchase a new home. There are some limitations to using a buyer specialist , however. Before you decide, let The Energized Realty Group explain the advantages and disadvantages of using a buyer specialist.

Features that Help or Hurt Resale Value
In some areas, a swimming pool can actually detract from your home's value and makes it harder to sell. In neighborhoods with two-car, attached garages, a single-car or detached garage may impact the home sale and future value. The Energized Realty Group can point out features that hurt, as well as those which help the resale value of a property, so that you can relax in your new home knowing that your investment is sound one.