Your Agent/REALTOR®

A successful purchase starts with the right representative. This should be someone who is informed, that can educate and guide you through the real estate process. They should be taking the time to get to know you and what your wants and needs are. And of course trust, I feel that trust is a big one, you have to be able to trust the agent, especially when you are looking at making one of the most expensive purchases in your life time.  And, once you’ve selected the best agent to represent you, it is likely that he or she can recommend other professionals to join your team, taking more of the responsibility off of your shoulders.

Mortgage Specialist

Mortgage brokers are not the same as banks. Do you know the difference? Having the right broker can be extremely important – it is your money we’re talking about after all! Make sure that your lender and financial representative is someone with whom you feel comfortable, and be wary of any lender who promises you more than you think you can reasonably afford. A good lender will be able to review your situation, and will be able to properly educate you on your options, and what will be in your best interest.

Home Inspector

No home inspection is 100% guaranteed, but a few hundred dollars to catch a major problem now is certainly better than many thousands to correct that ‘surprise’ down the road. Not all inspectors are equal, and just because they are licensed (as of Oct 2011 in AB), doesn’t mean that they know what they are doing. (Everyone who was in the industry, was grandfathered in, now they have a license to give you inadequate advice – scary!) Ask your agent for a recommendation.

Condo Inspectors

Are company’s that will review the condo documents for you, well worth the money. I also ask buyers “You wouldn’t buy a business without every reviewing the books, would you?” Well a condo is not much different. You need to make sure that the budget is on track, the reserve fund hold enough money, the meetings are being run property, owners concerns are being taken care of, etc. Your agent will be able to assist you in providing a recommendation.

Lawyer

Your home purchase is far too important a transaction to skimp on legal representation at the risk of leaving yourself open to costly future issues. Find a lawyer who is willing to take the time to answer your questions and who specializes in real estate law.