Talk to your lender and ask about the new Good Faith Estimate and what it does FOR YOU! 

Keep your CREDIT SCORE CLEAN!  Try not to buy anything while trying to get a loan.  OOPPS! Bad Idea.

It is very important to know how much you can invest:  BEFORE YOU SHOP talk to your favorite lender. If you don't have one, I can provide a list for you. Your lender will review credit information, give you an application form and talk to you about the property you wish to invest.  Be honest, straight forward and the process will go smoothly. CREDIT SCORES play a big role. If  you don't have good credit you may not get a loan.  Talk to your lender.  He or She can help you get on track if you have bad credit. If  you have good credit FANTASTIC you are on your way.
It is a painless process but, if you need financing, it is a necessary process.  Interest Rates are still at a record low, but we predict they will rise later this year.

Most sellers will want to see a pre-approval letter from your lender. This shows the seller that you have done your homework and ready to buy.

DON'T GET A LOAN THAT IS NOT RIGHT FOR YOU AND THE HOME OR PROPERTIES YOU ARE BUYING!

Know what you want. Make sure the property that catches your eye is the right property.  Don't go through the whole process and find out at closing that this is not the right thing to do.

PROPERTY SEARCH:  Go to Property Search on my site! Check the appropriate information relative to YOU. Click on Search the MLS. This is a good source to help you in your search. Listings from the Multiple Listing Service in Chelan, Douglas Okanogan etc., Counties, are there for your viewing. There are listings in Quincy and Ephrata. I am a part of IDX (Internet Data Exchange) that helps you view properties from your home via internet.

Watch your credit.  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.

NOW YOU ARE READY TO VIEW PROPERTIES:   Places to view properties are the Internet, Web Sites (Property Search mentioned above), Home Magazines, drive by neighborhoods or call ME.  I will need some criteria for the property you are seeking. My computer has many resources and can access many properties on the market. Sometimes homes sell quickly, so be ready to make fast decisions.

COMMUNICATION IS CRITICAL:   Instant communication can mean the difference in purchasing the property of your choice. Remember, I am here ready to help.  If you see that right property, call ME.

IS IT TIME TO BUY?  If you are ready and this property is the one, let's write the offer. You will also get comparables of like properties so that the offer you are making will be a strong offer. The offer will include Earnest Money that shows the seller good faith on your part in that you are serious about the property. There are several other questions concerning time frames for Closing the deal; who you will want for an Escrow Company (Title Company); what Inspections will need to be performed and completed; what about the Loan-Financing; AND what about INSURANCE?  You will need insurance to obtain a loan.  The fewer the contingencies the sooner you will own your property.  BUT, you must be satisfied with all aspects of your property.  You are in a need to know critical area.

WHO IS WORKING FOR YOU ON THIS OFFER? ME, VIVIAN MCABEE - LET ME DO THE WORK AND HELP YOU THROUGH THE VIEWING, AND BUYING PROCESS.  AFTER ALL IT IS MY JOB AS A REALTOR WORKING FOR YOU!

FHA MAY BE TIGHTNING THEIR RULES WashingtonPost.com

Vivian McAbee, Realtor     Cell: 509-679-6635
Email: vivian@nwi.net
Web: www.vivianmcabee.com