It has been said that, Buying a home is a process, not an event.  So whether you're a first time buyer or a seasoned Orange County Homeowner, getting the Best Value and Best Price can be broken down into 5 easy steps. 

Step 1, Get Pre-Approved.  Getting Pre-Qualified is not the same.  Know how much you can afford and don't expect to find many cheap homes in Orange County, California.  Many potential home-buyers skip this step and become frustrated with the process.  Getting Pre-Approved is a vital part of the home buying process and will add one of the most important components to your negotiating power. 

Getting the Best Loan at the best terms starts with finding a reputable lender.  The lending business has become very price competitive, so find an Orange County Lender you can trust and stick with him or her.  The best interest rates are reserved for the best creditworthy borrowers, so find a trustworthy lender and they will get the best rate and terms available to you, automatically. 

Step 2, Find an Orange County REALTOR®.  A REALTOR® will act as your Buyers Agent.  Real estate agents are trained to make the home buying process go smoothly.  An experienced Orange County REALTOR® will know the Orange County Communities that fit your needs.  They know Orange County home inspectors, Orange County Escrow companies, lenders, handymen and more.  The best part, is that it will cost you nothing unless of course you choose the wrong real estate agent.  REALTORS® generally have two intangibles to offer their clients.  Experience and Knowledge. 

Don't get trapped into using Non-REALTORS® or agents that offer you big commission rebates on Orange County listings.  Commissions are generally paid by the sellers, so your goal should be focused on getting the lowest price on the sale end.  Real estate agents that offer commission rebates up front may not be the strongest negotiators.  Commission rebates are usually used as inducements to get business and is generally offered by newer and inexperienced agents.  As a home-buyer you should demonstrate your negotiating skills by first getting the price down on your Orange County home purchase and then if the rebate is important and you feel that your agent deserves a reduction in pay, ask for a commission rebate.  In other words, get your moneys worth the smart way. 

Step 3, Drive around and visit different neighborhoods.  Your Orange County REALTOR® should guide you to the different neighborhoods that fit your budget and criteria.  Maybe an Orange County foreclosure property that you can fix up will come along.  California Foreclosures can be found with a little searching.  Find the locations that feel good to you and then zero in on the house you want. 

Step 4, Make the offer.  Once you find the house, let your real estate agent negotiate the best price and terms for you.  The Orange County real estate market, your REALTORS® experience and your PRE-Approved loan will play an important role on how much negotiating can be accomplished. 

Step 5, During the escrow period, DO NOT make any purchases that will negatively affect your credit rating and borrowing power.  Your lender can give you more guidance in this area.  Get a Home Inspection by a licensed California Contractor and be sure to get a 12 month Home Warranty at the close of escrow. 

Orange County homes for sale, come in a wide variety and price range.  Finding homes for sale in Orange County can be as easy as 1-2-3.  With the help of an experienced Orange County REALTOR®, you can find the home of your dreams. 

Finally, put the power of MyOCHomesOnline to work for you.  We'll find you an experienced REALTOR® to help you through the home buying process.