Buying Basics

From Dream to Reality

Buying a home is one of the most important personal and financial decisions you'll ever make. That's why CENTURY 21 Lakes Region Realty wants you to have this step-by-step guide to help you find and buy your home. We're also here to answer your questions along the way. We want your real estate experience to be both hassle-free and rewarding.

Before you start looking for a home, become an educated consumer. Knowledge is power and misinformation gets in your way. First, learn about the process and requirements for buying a home. Common misconceptions include renting is always cheaper than buying. In some cases, the starter costs of renting may be about the same as a house down payment. As you start your search to find a home, keep informed. Talk with people who’ve gone through the home-buying process----attend home-buying seminars and speak with our knowledgeable real estate experts.

Choosing Your Real Estate Professional:

Deciding to “find and buy” combines your personal hopes and dreams with wanting what's best for you and your family. It means making changes, That's why it's in your best interest to choose an experienced real estate agent who listens to and understands your needs and works in the area where you want to live. When you choose a CENTURY 21 Lakes Region Realty agent, you're dealing with an experienced professional who understands your concerns and will provide you with the personalized service makes all the difference. CENTURY 21 is in 42 countries, 7,800 offices, 104 languages, and represented by 143,000 agents who understand the life changes that real estate decisions can bring. What should you expect in your first meeting with a real estate agent? A CENTURY 21 agent typically will talk to you about the neighborhood where you want to live, discuss home prices and market trends, schools, and surrounding residential areas.

The second home market really calls for an experienced agent. There are so many nuances to consider. Waterfront properties are valued based upon a wide array of considerations. (Exposure, location, upcoming “tear down” areas and more. Many of the finest properties are not easily found in what are oftentimes-rural locations. CENTURY 21 Lakes Region Realty agents are experts in this market. Their knowledge and expertise in this field is second to none. Checkout our “Neighborhoods” information area for detailed information about various subdivisions and new projects.