Tips for Kitsap County Homebuyers

Elizabeth Razzi offers these six observations worth keeping in mind when you're shopping for a home:

• Don't reject a home because of outdated appliances. You can buy new ones for a few thousand dollars--a small investment compared to the total cost of the home.
• Check out the commute during different times of the day and days of the week. What's the traffic pattern to and from. Will different weather patterns make a difference.
• Your REALTOR should present your offer in person. The seller and their agent don't know you but your REALTOR should. Discuss specifically what you want him or her to say.
• Ensure the purchase and sale agreement addresses everything in the house that you want.
• Make sure your purchase and sale agreement contains the necessary contingencies and terms that protect you and provide leverage for your offer and to your benefit.
• Your closing date should occur earlier than your loan "lock" expiration date so you won't have to deal with a higher mortgage interest rate.