Real Estate: A Buyer's Market?

Manda Spring
We have heard this saying a hundred times... "It's a Buyer's Market!" But what exactly does that mean? It means that the real estate market fluctuates and sometimes it is friendlier toward the buyer and sometimes more friendly to the seller. But, if you are a buyer, this saying means nothing. Anyone can tell you how great it is to be you when you want to sell but there are key things you should know before you take the plunge into the real estate market.

Real Estate: Watch Out!

Some states will require sellers to disclose certain info. Such as: Your home has lead-based paints, someone has died in the home, property condition, radon and asbestos hazards, among many others. It is important that when you are buying you first ask about these things.

It is important to make out a list after you check with state departments as to what types of information is required to be disclosed. Write out this list and any of your own concerns that may not be obligatory. When you are going through the house with either the agent or the owner you should then bring up this points and pay attention to their reaction.

It is important not to merely take a person at their word. Once they have satisfied you with an answer it is always best to enforce your need to know, for example: "Wonderful news that these things do not pertain to this property, once we have it in writing and notarized either from you or another credible source we can move forward." This will show the seller that you are serious and leave the possibility open for legal action if they are lying. This will prompt honesty or correction of such hazards for fear of prosecution.

Real Estate: The Eager Beaver

If you have ever bought a house and the seller was a little too anxious to be rid of the property then you know what feelings rush over you. If you feel as though something is wrong then you need to bail out of the situation. Don't ever be intimidated, coerced or feel as though you are obligated in any way to buy a piece of property. This is a HUGE decision and should be treated with the utmost care.

If someone is too excited to sell you need to find out why. If the answer does not satisfy you then there is a problem. It is always important, prior to buying, to find out all you can about the home and the current owners before signing anything.

Real Estate: Conclusion

This is one of those huge steps that need a lot of consideration such as: location, hazards, restrictions, and other hidden aspects. It is up to you, as the buyer, to figure out these important elements and make the educated decision as to the property and if it is right for you. If you by any chance do not understand the terms cited then you need to see a lawyer and ask them to go through it with you. Should you have questions for the owner or agent, then you need to write them down and ask as soon as possible. This is a big venture that needs much consideration and deliberation in order to make successful.

Published by Manda Spring

Manda Spring is a published author of books, screenplays, advertisements, and articles (in print magazines and online).  View profile

2 Comments

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  • Cee Belair3/27/2007

    Definately a buyer's market in our area! Tons of sellers - not many buyers. Good article!

  • Scott S3/27/2007

    Wow. You say "It's a Buyer's Market. But, if you are a buyer, this saying means nothing." That's ludicrous. The saying means a ton! In a buyer's market, sellers become flexible on the selling price. You can negotiate a lower selling price. Sellers also become flexible on terms. Finally, there are lots of homes on the market, many of which have been for sale for a long time. The saying means a lot!

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