By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team By the time you get the keys to your new construction home, you might feel stretched thin in the finance department. From earnest money and design center upgrades, to closing costs and moving expenses, buying a brand-new home is never cheap. As you take a look at the costs on the horizon, it’s wise to look a little past your closing date. There are a few post-closing costs that are unique to brand-new homes and some that are familiar to all new homeowners. Set aside a little money for these expenses now, and it’ll be smooth sailing once the “sold” sign is out front.

Appliances

Unless you’ve negotiated a washer and dryer into the price of the home with your builder, your new laundry room will likely be a big empty space when you move in — no washer and dryer to be found. Many builders don’t include a refrigerator either, opting instead to let homeowners choose a style that suits their needs. Here’s a tip to ease your wallet woes: Start shopping appliance sales once you know your approximate close date. Many appliance stores will let you purchase ahead of time to take advantage of a good price, then delay your delivery until you move in.

Utilities

If you’re upgrading to a larger home, your utilities will likely increase, especially heating and cooling. And if you’re moving to a new city or a location with a different utility company, you may have to pay a deposit to start service. If you’re interested in services like cable, satellite TV, or Internet, you may have to install some equipment that would already be installed if you were buying a pre-owned home.

Window coverings

Look at all those big, beautiful windows in your new home! And then notice that they’re bare — no blinds or curtains in sight. Most new homes do not come with window coverings, and they’re definitely something you’ll want to quickly look into when you move in. There are better ways to introduce yourselves to the neighborhood than through wide-open windows — or bedsheets pinned up for privacy.

Furniture

There’s nothing more exciting than picking up some great new furnishings and decor for a brand-new space. You may have pieces that worked well in your old space but don’t fit your new home’s layout. Or maybe you have a new guestroom to furnish, a deck that is begging for patio furniture, or beautiful hardwood floors that need area rugs. Set aside some money now so you can start decorating right after move-in day.

Landscaping

Did you know that some builders only landscape the front yard, leaving the backyard unfinished and unfenced? And, if your new neighborhood has a homeowner’s association, the rules may require you to finish your yard within a certain time period. That means you foot the bill for landscaping your new home’s yard, and whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, it’s still an expense you shouldn’t overlook. Setting foot in your brand-new, just-finished home is an exhilarating experience, and something you won’t soon forget. With just a little planning and saving in advance, you can spend more time making your new house a home, and less time stressing over how you’re going to pay for it all. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Buying a home is the largest purchase many consumers will ever make, and many will turn to a lender for financing. But finding a lender you click with can be a challenge, especially if you wait until the last minute. Li-Ning Huang, a research manager on Fannie Mae’s economic and strategic research team, says buyers should start talking to lenders early in the process — before you fall in love with a home — and compare several quotes. “Otherwise, you could end up choosing a lender based on convenience,” she says.

Avoid buyer’s remorse

Twenty-one percent of home buyers reported buyer’s remorse over their lender, according to a recent J.D. Power study. Among first-time home buyers, that rose to 27 percent. Dissatisfied respondents cited a lack of communication, unmet promises, and feeling pressured to select a specific mortgage product. “If you’re not getting a call back, or don’t understand what’s going on, look elsewhere,” advises Angie Hicks, founder of Angie’s List. Last year, about 9 percent of the real estate pros received C, D, or F grades from Angie’s List members. “People happy with their mortgage pros cited quick, friendly, clear responses and fair pricing,” says Hicks. “There are plenty of qualified, trustworthy lenders out there.”

Find the right lender

It’s important to find a lender or broker who communicates well with you, and in a manner you’re comfortable with. This applies whether you’re meeting face-to-face with a lender, or working online and over the phone. Does the lender explain things well? Are they willing to spend the time? Or do they seem rushed and irritated? To test the waters, Hicks suggests asking these five open-ended questions:

1. Is this the right time for me to buy? The lender’s answer will depend on your circumstances — such as your debt-to-income ratio, how much you plan to put down, and other factors. What’s important is that they explain your situation in a way you understand.
2. What personal debts — like credit cards — should I pay down before closing? And how soon do I need to do that to qualify for a good rate? Lenders should explain what they’re looking for in your credit history and how you might improve your credit score. According to credit reporting agency Experian, on a scale ranging from 300-850, a credit score of 700 or above is generally considered good. A score of 800 or above is considered excellent. If you aren’t sure what to expect, you can order your free credit report online.
3. Should I pay points to lower my interest rate? Your interest rate may be paired with mortgage discount points. One discount point typically amounts to 1 percent of the loan amount. So one point on a $250,000 mortgage would equal $2,500. A lender should explain the options. “The longer you plan on living in your home, the more sense it may make to pay points,” advises the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
4. How much will I need to pay at closing? Do I pay by check, wire transfer, or bank check? Make sure you really understand how the money will be transferred when the deal closes. There’s been an uptick in scammers swiping the buyer’s closing funds during electronic transfers, according to the Federal Trade Commission.
5. Who will service my loan? A servicer is the company that collects your mortgage payments and deals with late or missed payments. Some lenders service their own mortgages or outsource servicing. Others might sell the mortgage. While you have no say on who services your loan, this question gives lenders the opportunity to talk about the scope of their business and commitment to you.

Buying a home is an exciting time — finding a lender shouldn’t ruin the experience for you. Take it slow, ask the right questions, and you’re sure to find a great fit. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.