7 ways homebuyers can gain an edge this spring

When winter finally ends and the temperatures start rising, it's a fair bet that the housing market will heat up, too.

If you're thinking this spring is a good time to starting looking for a house, you are hardly alone. That, of course, is the problem. Your dream house, which might have been easy enough for you to grab a few years ago, is being eyed by other potential buyers.

So if you don't want to lose your dream home, here are some strategies to give you an edge over the competition.

1. Get your financing lined up. You may not fear being turned down by the bank, but the seller doesn't know that. The seller may also be in a hurry to hand you the keys. Marketplace Home Mortgage has a 5 Day Underwriter Approval Program that will put your offer right to the top.  While the other bids still need to be Underwritten yours will already have been.
2. Try to find out why the seller is selling. Buying a house can be an emotional decision. Selling a house can be, too.
3. Be flexible. If you're competing against other buyers, be as accommodating as possible.
4. Sweeten the deal. It's not uncommon to [offer] over the asking price in order to ensure your contract is the one accepted.
5.  Be fast. This is a big decision you ideally don’t want to rush, but if you know you can afford the house and you love it and the neighborhood, then, yes, you probably should rush.
6. Be bold. If you really want the house, don't get too cute and make a lowball offer, thinking there will be a lot of negotiation. You should suggest something close to the price the homeowner is expecting, or risk your offer being ignored. And this isn't the time to be petty – or cheap.
7. Provide good customer service. Wait, isn't that the seller's job? You would hope so, but in a competitive market, it comes down to thinking of the homeowner as your customer. You'll get his business (well, the house) if you're personable, easy to work with and able to offer a good deal. Of course, you want to make sure you don't offer the seller such an amazing deal that you hate yourself the day after closing. You want the welcome mat – what you don't want is to be a doormat.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to give me a call.

Thanks for Reading!

Brian Griffin

NMLS #825840

Marketplace Home Mortgage #1082

651-379-0374

bgriffin@marketplacehome.com

briangriffin.marketplacehome.com