Buying Real Estate in Dothan AL

Choosing your real estate professional is, perhaps, the most important decision you will make when navigating Dothan, AL real estate on your journey towards home ownership. We believe the more you look around, the more you will see the value of working with the professionals at Tom West Company.

However, no matter whom you choose, these simple tips will help you find and purchase the home of your dreams more quickly and efficiently.  

If you're interested in gaining more insight into Dothan real estate be sure to contact our office for the latest listings.

Before you shop:

Be a smart consumer. Learn the financing basics and know how to shop for a home loan that's right for you. We understand the financial process can be overwhelming, our team of hardworking men and women have dedicated their time to help. Our goal is to provide you with all the tools and knowledge needed to be successful. If you have any financial questions contact us. We are more than happy to help.

Get pre-approved. This takes very little time and allows you to determine the price range that fits your lifestyle.

Know what you want. The last thing you need is to close a deal and realize you bought a house you don't want. Ask yourself what you're looking for in a home, before you shop. According to Neighborhood Scout, Dothan, AL is home to 68,560 people divided up into 16 constituent neighborhoods. Do you have children who will be commuting to one of the local schools? Or are you yourself seeking your degree in Alabama? If so, you may consider limiting your housing options to properties nearby the local school and college districts. Think about size, commute time, necessary repairs, and anything other factors that might affect you or your family.

Keep your debt load to a minimum. Don't make major purchases or incur any additional debt until after your purchase. Pay down credit cards and don't apply for new ones. Remember, financial institutions evaluate your financial situation on your gross monthly income. Your total monthly house costs should not exceed 28 percent of your gross monthly income.

Be prepared to view new properties quickly. Homes can often sell quickly, so be ready to make fast decisions. Be accessible to change the terms and prepare for fluctuations in the market.

Have instant access to your agent. Instant communication can make a difference in purchasing the property of your choice. Our team is prepared and eager to work with you in the process of finding the home of your dreams. We are serious about our relationship with you during this journey, and we want to be there for you every step of the way.

Before you buy:

Submit a strong competitive offer.

Include a substantial earnest money deposit. A key factor when attempting to purchase property is submitting an offer that is both appealing to the owner and also within your budget. A competitive offer will bring more attention to you as a buyer. It’s best to get advice from your real estate agent. Our real estate professionals have the knowledge needed in the real estate world, we are more than happy to help you come up with an offer that will get noticed.

Try to minimize the number of contingencies. Fewer contingencies will often mean a stronger offer. It’s best to understand what contingencies come up in your new home’s neighborhood, so ask your real estate professional for advice on which risks to keep and which to ditch. Our real estate agents will joyfully assist you in deciding which contingencies are worth keeping.

Hire an inspector. A professional building inspector or appraiser will make sure the house of your choice is in satisfactory condition. This is necessary before you can move forward with a home loan.

Check zoning regulations and covenants. Good residential neighborhoods will be zoned to keep out commercial and industrial users. Read any restrictive covenants and make sure they fit your lifestyle.

Request an updated property survey. Be sure it clearly marks boundaries. Check for problems. Contact your real estate agent should any issues occur.

Make sure you know what stays or goes. Your contract should be very specific about which items (appliances, etc) are included in the sale. Our agents will happily go over your contract with you and identify the items that are included in your home purchase.

Get agreements in writing. Make sure certain verbal agreements are written into the final contract to avoid any stressful and expensive issues later.

If you're interested in learning more about Dothan, Alabama real estate and homes for sale in areas nearby you can check out the latest listings. Questions? Call our office today at 334-794-0328 or toll-free at 800-354-7680, we are eager to assist you. You can check out our Facebook page to learn more about us and real estate in our area.