Check out these simple tips before you start your search for a luxury home.
The first thing that you have to remember about searching for a luxury home is that the searching process is entirely different than for a standard house. Most luxury homes are not listed on MLS websites to help protect the seller’s privacy. If you are in the market for a luxury home, you are going to need to look beyond online listings – this is where a luxury local specialist is your secret weapon.
Photos are great, but make sure you do not dismiss a potential home just because the images do not woo you. Some luxury homes have to be seen in person to be truly appreciated.
Make sure the agent you select for this luxury home buying process is a local agent. The last thing you want is someone unfamiliar with the area or someone who is not tapped in with the local luxe community. Ask for their resume of past luxury listings sold.
Building on your existing relationships with lenders will help you get financing. Your banker already knows your portfolio, so it will be less stress in the long run.
Keep a record of everything relating to your finances. There is a lot of scrutiny in the high-end market, so you need detailed documents to prove that you can afford the house.
Hire the right kind of adviser to help you make smart decisions. This means both your realtor and your financial planner should be involved in your purchasing process.
Title insurance is essential. Make sure you have it, so you are protected against any problems that were overlooked.
Talk with the local government to discover if there are plans to develop land around your new luxury home. The last thing you want is a building encroaching on your serenity or view.
Cooperatives and condominium purchases are much different from single-standing home purchases. Know what to expect and make sure you are represented by an attorney who has researched the building and its financial viability.
Do not forget to negotiate. There is plenty of room to lower your purchase price, so make sure you know what the comps are in the area, use that as your negotiating number, and go from there.
