Consumer Affairs Office

Buying a Home

Checklist | Hitting Close to Home | FAQ | Links

Checklist

• Consider your options based on the length of time you will be in the area (renting vs buying). Properties in this area tend to take a few years to appreciate to the point where you will make any money from the sale

• Determine your needs (# of bedrooms, bathrooms, fenced-in yard, etc.)

• Look at your monthly budget and determine how much you can afford each month on your house (mortgage, insurance, utilities, lawncare, furniture, etc)

• Shop around for financing your mortgage (get pre-approved for the amount that is your high limit). Consider the type and term of the financing (for example, fixed rate, 30 year mortgage) Go house shopping. You can go through a real estate agent or find a “for sale by owner” property. Narrow your search down to a few properties.

• Consider the neighborhood restrictions/covenants. If you have children, consider the schools in the area.

• Determine which property you are most interested in, and make an offer. In this area, the seller normally pays the closing costs. Ensure that you include any specifics in your offer (for example: “seller will leave all appliances” or “seller will put new carpeting in the living room”)

• It is your consumer right to have a home inspection performed. People that do these inspections can be found in the yellow pages. Normally, this costs around $200, and they will inspect your house very thoroughly.

• Shop around for insurance. Decide if you want to purchase a warranty. Ensure that you understand what the warranty covers.

• Choose the house that best fits your needs, wants, and price range.

• Have someone look over the contract for you (CAO does this for you) prior to signing.

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Hitting Close to Home

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Frequently Asked Questions

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