Simple answer:
1. Get a loan approval letter.
2. If you have not hired a real estate agent with foreclosure experience find one.
3. Go with the agent to the property.
4. Get your agent to provide comparable sales data on the area you are interested in.
5. Make an offer. Offer what you want, do not listen to what the listing agent states. He/she is working for the seller and is working on their behalf but must present any and all offers.
You can get a Competitive Market Analysis (CMA) from most real estate agents on this site or someone in your local community. Simply ask.
Let them know what you are trying to accomplish, your address and they should be able to provide this useful information to you in no time. - Tue Aug 19 2008, 06:32
Good question and one that can be very easy or difficult to answer without more information.
They say that it is not what you sell something for it is what you buy it for that makes a good or bad deal.
In this market, townhomes have struggled vs. single family homes, however with that being said, certain area of Georgia have very good resale values of townhomes. Traditionally it takes townhomes longer to sell than single family homes and the rate of appreciation is less with townhomes.
Your agent is more than likely looking out for your best interests but if a townhome is what you want then make sure that you find the best deal available in the area you are looking in. Make sure you get a competitive market analysis done on the neighborhood and any other similar properties within a mile or so of your desired location to make a competitive initial offer.
I would say yes, but... I would make sure that you find an agent to work for your best interests and represent you in the transaction. I would strongly suggest not trying to do it yourself unless you have gone this route before.
If the FSBO is not willing to pay a commission to a co-op agent working for you I would not look further into the purchase. - Thu Aug 14 2008, 07:23
MVPs or 'Most Valuable Players' are key Trulia Voices members who have been contributing high-quality content throughout 2008 and providing valuable advice to consumers and real estate professionals.