Military Family Relocating - Our family is moving back to the States after traveling the world following my husband in his military career. We have

Annie
Home Buyer
Waldorf, MD

decided to permanently settle in Waldorf, MD. We will arrive in the area in June. We currently reside in Bosnia. I will probably only be able to make one trip in advance of the rest of the family arriving. When should I start speaking with a real estate agent? We have seen several new construction homes on the Internet that we like. This will be our first home purchase. I know we will need a VA Certificate and pre-approval, but I don't know how long those things are good for. Guidance and suggestions would be appreciated!

Answers (5)
John Uribe
Agent
Waldorf, MD

Annie, it's not too early to start laying the groundwork for your move. You should speak with real estate agents and loan officers soon. Both the real estate and mortgage markets are going to be changing between now and June so you need to begin getting good information on both now and stay current. If you are particularly interested in new construction there are some difficulties in getting complete information on what is available in Waldorf (or any market). All builders don't put their listings in the multiple listing service. Some listings may be actually available, or under construction but many/most are 'to be built' - examples of what they can build when they have a contract. For instance, at the moment there are 31 Active, new construction single family homes listings in Waldorf, but only ten of these are actually built or under construction. The largest new homes builder in Waldorf, Lennar does not list their homes in the mls but do have standing homes for sale. So getting good information can be tricky. Most builders have their 'preferred lenders' which you may be required to use in order for the builder to contribute towards your closing costs. And then again there are builders who are willing to do every reasonable thing they can for the buyer in order to build a home. On the subject of lenders I strongly suggest you use a local lender familiar with the Waldorf market. When issues arise, as they will, you want to be able to meet in person. I can provide you with names of lenders who have provided satisfactory service to our company for many years. No obligation, of course. You have all this and more to consider.

Sat Oct 31 2009, 11:20
Sandra Williams
Agent
Crofton, MD

Since on average it takes 6-8 months to complete construction and you've found several new construction homes that you like, you might want to find out the Builder's delivery schedule. The Builder may open a particular section or homesite that they estimate to be delivered in June, allowing you to contract now for a delivery date closer to your return to the United States.

If you want assistance, I'm available. Email the communities or builder's your interested in and I'll do the leg work.

Fri Oct 30 2009, 08:26
Jessica Ballas
Agent
Crofton, MD

Hi Annie,

Our military family (retired Navy) team of full-time Realtors specialize in military relocations. You can view the complete MLS of homes for sale including new construction, foreclosures and short sales to help you get a feel for the area and pricing. There are some tremendous bargains to be had right now so your timing is excellent. We handle the areas closer to Fort Meade but are affiliatied with Waldorf real estate specialists who can look out for your best interest. If you would like a recommendation for a great agent just call or e-mail us.

Fri Oct 30 2009, 08:19
Ania Miller
Agent
21401

Annie,
You and your husband should interview at least 3 Agents to make sure that you each complement each other. The sooner, the better as it may take a little while to find that perfect home. Same should be done with a lender, shop around or I can share some names with you, to see how they can best serve you.
Altough I live in Annapolis now, I lived in Waldorf for a long time, some family members are still residing there.
Bosnia, that is a far away place for sure. I myself am from Eastern Europe and have very fond memories.
Please let me know if I can be of service to you.

Ania
AniaMiller@kw.com

Fri Oct 30 2009, 08:19
Mansur Hasib -...
Agent
Maryland
FIRST ANSWER

A lot depends on whether or not you will decide to live temporarily somewhere and then go home hunting or if you wish to move in directly to the new home. Delivery dates on new homes can be long. Most experienced VA lenders can do all your eligibility and paperwork online. Once you establish a relationship with a lender, they will be able to update your approval and provide new letters as needed. Your lender and agent will work as a team to help you. I have been working with military families since 2002. Thanks for your service. If I can be of service to you, let me know.

Fri Oct 30 2009, 08:10

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