TOP 5 REASONS TO USE A REAL ESTATE AGENT

  1. Expertise: Real estate agents have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the complex process of buying or selling a home, including pricing, marketing, negotiation, and legalities.
  2. Access: Agents have access to a wider range of properties and potential buyers through their professional networks, marketing channels, and multiple listing services (MLS).
  3. Time-saving: Agents handle the time-consuming tasks of scheduling showings, conducting open houses, and screening potential buyers, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your life.
  4. Objective advice: Agents provide an objective perspective and can offer advice based on facts and data, rather than emotions or personal biases.
  5. Better results: Research has shown that homes sold by agents typically sell for more money and in less time than those sold by owners.

 GETTING PRE-APPROVED BEFORE THE SEARCH

  1. It helps you determine your budget and what you can afford.
  2. It shows sellers that you are a serious buyer and can afford the property.
  3. It can help speed up the closing process as some of the paperwork is already completed.
  4. It can give you an advantage over other potential buyers who are not pre-approved.
  5. It can help you avoid disappointment if you fall in love with a property that is outside of your budget.

ITEMS YOU MAY NEED WHEN APPLYING FOR A LOAN

  1. Social Security Numbers –Borrower and all co-borrowers. Needed for accurate credit rate.
  2. Residence Address -Past 7 years (Current and previous) landlords, mortgage companies (account numbers). All borrowers.
  3. Copy of Driver’s License -All borrowers.
  4. Names and Addresses of Each Employer -Current and previous 2 years. All borrowers.
  5. Gross Monthly Salary and Employment Pay Stubs -Hourly rate and the number of hours worked a week or biweekly. Weekly, monthly, or annual salary. All borrowers.
  6. Names, Addresses, Account Numbers, and Balances of Checking, Savings, and Retirement Investment Accounts – Needed to mail verifications of deposits (need last 2 statements). All borrowers.
  7. Revolving Charge Accounts Names, Addresses, Account Numbers, Balances, and Monthly Payments of All – Need minimum monthly payments and balances on all accounts used in the past 6 months even if the account has a zero balance. All borrowers.
  8. Names, Addresses, Account Numbers, and Balances and Monthly Payments of All Open Loans – i.e., car loans, mortgage loans, student loans, share loans, boat loans, etc. All borrowers.
  9. Federal Tax Returns – 1040s: most recent two years, with all schedules, statements, and agenda (completed and signed). All borrowers.
  10. W-2 Forms – Most recent two years. All borrowers.
  11. Addresses of Other Real Estate Owned – Needed for the schedule of real estate. Need to know the type of property (land, home, duplex). All borrowers.
  12. Loan Information of Other Real Estate Owned – Needed for verification of mortgage. All borrowers.
  13. Helpful Items – Survey; Amount of Property Taxes and Insurance – Needed for Good Faith Estimate
  14. VA Only – Certificate of Eligibility or DD214 – Need as soon as possible. The lender will have a form to request the certificate.
  15.  Self-Employment – Personal and Corporate Tax Returns
  16. Stock, Bond Brokerage Account Information – All Borrowers.
  17. Face Amount of Life Insurance – All Borrowers
  18. Homeowner’s Insurance Agent’s Contact information

(The actual list of documents your lender requests may vary, depending on the lender, the mortgage you want and your financial situation. Ask the lender for a list of paperwork you might need to provide, and start collecting it before you begin the application process. Having everything ready from the get-go will help you close on the home with less stress.)

10 REASONS WHY I LOVE NORTHWEST ARKANSAS       

  1. Booming economy: Northwest Arkansas has a thriving job market, thanks to the presence of several multinational corporations.
  2. Affordable cost of living: Despite its economic success, Northwest Arkansas is still affordable to live in, with a lower cost of living compared to other metropolitan areas in the country.
  3. Natural beauty: From the Ozark Mountains to the many rivers and lakes, Northwest Arkansas is known for its picturesque landscapes.
  4. Outdoor recreation: With its natural beauty, Northwest Arkansas offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and more.
  5. Rich culture: Northwest Arkansas is home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters, showcasing the region's rich history and culture.
  6. Growing diversity: The region is becoming increasingly diverse, attracting people from different backgrounds and cultures.
  7. Excellent schools: Northwest Arkansas boasts several top-rated schools, both public and private, offering quality education to its residents.
  8. Friendly community: The people of Northwest Arkansas are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home.
  9. Vibrant nightlife: The region has a thriving nightlife, with several bars, clubs, and restaurants offering a variety of entertainment options.
  10. Convenient location: Northwest Arkansas is located in the center of the country, making it easy to travel to other parts of the United States.