Nick Carter

Awards: Top Producer 2017

Nick Carter

Laurie Carter

Awards: Top Producer 2017

Laurie Carter

Shopping for a new home is an emotional experience. It is, however, also a business transaction, and must be treated as such. Three of the most devastating things that can go wrong are:

  • Paying too much
  • Losing a dream home to another buyer
  • Buying the wrong home

When you have a systematic plan before you shop, you’ll be sure to avoid these costly errors. Here are some tips on making the most of your home purchase:

1. Get the information you need

What price do you offer a seller? Is the seller’s asking price too high? Is it a deal? Your own research is important, as is the assistance of a REALTOR®. A professional REALTOR® can offer an unbiased opinion on the value of a home, based on many factors and a great deal of information. Without knowledge of the market, your offer could be too much. Or worse, you could miss out on a great buying opportunity. Hire the right person and trust that person to represent your interests.

2. Buy YOUR home

What do you need and want in a home? Sounds simple, but clearly identifying your needs and bringing an objective view to home shopping leaves you in a much better position. How much space do you really need? Too small and you may feel like you live in constant clutter. Too big and maintenance may become too daunting. Outline all of your priorities, and work on finding not just a great home, but a great home for you.

3. Check the title

Before you sign any document, be sure the property you are considering is free of all encumbrances. As a part of his or her services, a REALTOR® can supply you with a copy of the title to ensure there are no liens, debts, undisclosed owners, leases or easements against the title.

4. Update the survey

Before the purchase is completed, an updated survey is essential. This report will indicate boundaries and structural changes (additions to the house, a new swimming pool, neighbor’s new fence which is extending a boundary line, etc.), and will guarantee that you are indeed getting what you pay for.

5. Minimize the unexpected

For $300 - $500, a professional inspector will conduct a thorough inspection of the home. Their expertise can mean the difference between uncovering major flaws before or after you own a home. Make the final contract subject to the report’s findings.

6. Get pre-approved

It only takes a few days to get financing pre-approval. When you are shopping for a home, this gives you more power. A seller is more likely to consider an offer from a serious buyer.

7. Remember additional costs

Besides the funds for the purchase of a home, you’ll need funds for items such as loan fees, insurance, legal fees, surveys, inspections, etc.

8. Take a deep breath

Before you sign, ensure that all documentation clearly reflects your understanding and conditions of the transaction. Has anything been forgotten? Don’t rush. You could lose money, financing, or even the sale if you attempt to push things through too hastily.

I have sold three houses with Laurie and Nick and would go back to them for any future needs! I recommend them to any one looking for a real estate agent!

Cannot say enough good things about Nick Carter! He is smart, reliable, knowledgeable, patient & knows this area expansively! Highly recommended! Would not use anyone else when looking for real estate.

Our experience with Nick and Laurie while buying a home was very positive! They were fully prepared to show us homes that were within our range of style and they are extremely knowledgeable about the area. They really do always answer the phone and they are good listeners!! We worked mainly with Nick but Laurie was available immediately when we needed assistance and she went above and beyond to help us. They have wonderful personalities and make you feel relaxed and not rushed. We felt no pressure at all while touring homes and they were very patient and pleasant. They were also very accommodating to our needs, as our settlement attorney is located in Hockessin, DE. We absolutely love our new home and hope to never move, but if we do, we will definitely contact them again. Give them a call, you will not be disappointed!

Our home buying experience with Nick & Laurie Carter was extremely positive. As out-of-state buyers, we relied heavily on their expertise and knowledge of the local market. In addition, Nick and Laurie's professionalism, guidance, and support throughout the entire process gave us a feeling of confidence; we felt that they were really in tune with what we were looking for in a home.

You guys were so helpful! I really appreciate your guidance/backup to get to closing. Thanks.

I WILL answer my phone

Whether you've found a property you want to see, are in the process of closing a purchase or have questions about selling your current home... we're ALWAYS available.

We've dedicated ourselves to providing immediate and dependable service; you can always count on us to be there when you're in need. Never hesitate to drop us a line at 302-228-NICK (6425).

Providing Local Real Estate Resources

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For more information about local real estate listings or the region in general, please never hesitate to contact the Nick Carter Team.