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Alan Wood RE/MAX Plus in Pittsford, NY

Buyer’s Resources

Whether you are moving down the street in Pittsford, NY, or relocating out of the area, Alan Wood – RE/MAX Plus has the local expertise and resources to help you find the perfect home or condo for you and your family. We work closely with our clients to understand your real estate needs and goals to help you find the ideal home at the best possible price.

We’re happy to answer any questions during your home search. If there’s any way we can help, we will. Call us today!

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Are You Buying a Home? View Our FAQs!

List price, sales price, appraised value…what’s the difference?

The list price is the price the seller advertises. This figure can be high as it demonstrates the seller’s amount to receive. Sellers are known to price high, low, or somewhat close to the amount they actually want and/or believe they deserve — to ensure the list price is fair; we suggest comparing it to other homes on the market in the surrounding area.

Sales price refers to the buyer’s willingness to pay for a property. Appraisal value, however, is a certified estimate of what the property is worth — various factors, including comparable sales, state of the property, etc., play into determining this figure.

What’s the difference between market value and appraisal value?

Appraisals are an opinion from a certified appraiser on the worth of your home. Lenders will typically require utilizing an appraiser, but be aware; this service can cost up to $300. Market value, however, represents what the home is worth during this specific point in time and is determined based on a variety of factors, including the current state of the economy.

What are closing costs?

Closing costs are the fees for services, taxes, or special interest charges surrounding a home purchase. These include upfront loan points, title insurance, and escrow day charges, but they don’t have to be paid until after you close your home.

Do I need a title report?

The title report will ensure that you have clear ownership of the home. In order to pass on your purchase, it is important for there not to be any liens against this property or documents which would restrict its use by yourself and others in future – such as easements. A preliminary view provides an opportunity to review these impediments before it becomes too complex.

Should we dig deep and go right for our dream home or settle for a starter?

This depends on what matters most to your household as buyers! Say you’re choosing between a smaller house in an affluent neighborhood, or an older, larger home in an area that’s more working-class. If you’re trying to weigh location Vs. home size, start by asking yourself these questions: 

  • What’s more important; the neighborhood or the house itself?
  • Is each of the neighborhoods safe? 
  • What about the quality of the schools? 
  • Does the area attract more families or adult residents? 
  • Where do you fit in? 

 

What’s better, renting or buying a home?

Owning a home is not only an economic decision, but it offers tax benefits and gives you complete freedom over what happens in your house. Renters can’t do this because they are stuck paying for everything from taxes on their property all the way up to maintenance costs which would otherwise fall onto someone else’s shoulders if something goes wrong with any part or system within the building itself.

Is buying a foreclosed home an option?

A foreclosure property is a home that has been repossessed by lenders because the owners failed to pay their mortgage. Thousands of homes end up in this situation every year, and economic conditions are partly responsible. It’s wise to be cautious when considering buying a foreclosed home, and we recommend consulting with a professional.

What problems are associated with buying foreclosures?

Buying directly at a legal foreclosure auction can be extremely risky and dangerous. It is strictly a caveat emptor (“Let the buyer beware”), so you should always take precautions before making your purchase decision as well as inspect any property that catches your eye.

How do I get financing for a foreclosure?

One reason there are few bidders at these sales is that it’s next to impossible to secure loan approval. You generally need cash and lots of it or an account with your bank where they can draw checks on demand if needed; otherwise, no dice!

What is a home inspection?

One of the most significant aspects to consider when buying any house is its condition. A home inspection will provide crucial information about how well-maintained your new place actually may be, so that you can make an informed decision on whether or not this investment was worth it.

Do I need a home inspection? Why?

Buying a home “as is” can be an expensive proposition and major repairs on homes often amount to thousands of dollars. Plumbing, electrical, or roof problems are serious issues which require complex systems for repair — this process saves you a ton of money down the road!

Should I lowball my offer?

A low-ball offer is a term used to describe an offer on the house that’s substantially less than what it needs to be. As any attempted sale can run into problems, you should always do your research before presenting such kinds of offers because no matter how well planned or researched out something might seem in theory — many people will reject them outright.

Where do furnishings go when a home is sold?

Regardless of who gets what furniture when a home is sold, it’s important to know that fixtures (anything permanently attached like drapery rods or built-in bookcases) will stay with the house unless specified otherwise in the sales contract. But anything not nailed down can be negotiated.

What are property taxes?

Property taxes are an important source of revenue for local governments. How much you pay depends on your property’s worth, where it sits in relation to other properties, and if there may be any special assessments or fees related specifically to that taxing jurisdiction (such as fire protection charges), which can range up into thousands per year.

Is it possible to get a deduction for property taxes?

Yes! All real estate, including those levied by state and local governments as well school districts are fully deductible against your current income tax.

Are property taxes on second homes deductible?

Mortgages and property taxes are deductible if you itemize your deductions. Check with an accountant or tax adviser for more information on this topic, as it may be subject to change depending upon the individual circumstances of each person filing their taxes.

When is the best time to buy a home?

Check in with yourself. If any of the following bullets apply to you, it may be time to consider buying a home! 

  • Do you need a tax break? 
  • Are you not accounting for price appreciation in the short term? 
  • Can you afford monthly payments? 
  • Would you like to live somewhere long term?
  • Can you handle maintenance expenses and headaches homeowners face?
  • Are you tired of renting and ready to own?

Why should I buy a vacation home?

A major reason to purchase a vacation home is that it can serve as an investment property. Additionally, if you live in your new acquisition and use it for retirement purposes, there will be no taxes due upon disposition or sale, which provides significant savings!

How much will I spend on home maintenance?

Maintenance expenses vary depending on the age and cost of your home. You can expect to spend about 1% per year for general maintenance, with newer homes costing less than older ones because they typically require fewer repairs or updates over time due largely to their design features which were perfected early in production.

Why should I buy a vacation home?

A major reason to purchase a vacation home is that it can serve as an investment property. Additionally, if you live in your new acquisition and use it for retirement purposes, there will be no taxes due upon disposition or sale, which provides significant savings!

How do I know what I can afford?

There are a variety of factors to consider! 

  • What is your gross income? 
  • How much cash do you have available for a down payment, closing costs, and lender fees? 
  • Do you have any outstanding debts?
  • How is your credit history?
  • What type of mortgage do you have?
  • What are current interest rates like? 

 

Should I hire a buyer’s agent?

The agent is their guide for many buyers through this process. They need assistance when it comes to making important decisions about property listings and cost/commission sharing agreements with sellers.

How do I find a real estate agent?

If you’re navigating this website, you already have! Contact Alan Wood – RE/MAX Plus to get started on your home purchasing journey.

Interested in learning more about the homes we currently have on the market? Visit our Home Search page.

Alan Wood RE/MAX Plus
2171 Monroe Ave
Rochester, NY 14618
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Monday - Sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

585-748-9876

alan@alanwoodteam.com

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