We understands that the process of purchasing and qualifying for a new home can be difficult and sometimes complicated for new Buyers. In fact, most Buyers will admit that they can be a little bit overwhelmed by the entire process.

As a professional Realtor, Angel Barroso has devised a three-step approach to help new Buyers work understand exactly what they are looking for and assist them in working through the many details involved in purchasing and qualifying for a new home. He describes it as the “DNA” of any home purchase:

D = Desire (pool, larger house, etc.)
N = Needs (setting realistic expectations)
A = Ability to pay (i.e. mortgage, etc.)

Angel Barroso meets with individual Buyers and conducts a detailed “interview” which involves an assessment of what they are looking for in a new home; their goals and expectations for their new purchase; the locations they are interested in; the schools they are considering; and their financial background.

Upon completion of his Buyer’s Qualification Assessment, he then begins researching those areas that the Buyers are considering, in essence, he tries to match properties with the Buyer’s unique “DNA”. He visits the properties, talks to the Seller, evaluates the area, and then chooses five properties which he then decides to show you. More likely than not, the Buyers will decide of one of those five properties. If not, Angel Barroso begins the process anew.

As a professional Realtor, Angel Barroso earns his fee when the sale is complete, and the commission paid to him is deducted from the sale price on the Seller’s side, NOT the Buyer’s side.

If you would like to schedule a Buyer’s Qualifications Assessment today, please call Angel Barroso, Realtor, at 305-431-7999

How do I get started buying a home?

A good first step is to obtain counseling from Angel Barroso.

The next sensible step is to be "pre-approved"-- meaning a lender reviews your financial condition and believes you can qualify for a particular loan. If not yet pre-approved, it's best to first examine your finances to make sure you have enough money for a down payment and that your overall finances, especially credit, are in optimal condition.

Thinking about buying? You're not alone Figuring out whether you're ready to buy a house -- whether you're a renter or are aiming to move up or size down -- can be a daunting task. But there are signs that will indicate whether you're ready to take the buying plunge.

If you are thinking about buying, you're not alone.

David Lereah, the National Association of Realtor's chief economist, said the housing market has reached a new plateau. "Over the last few years, it's become apparent that the level of home sales will generally remain at higher levels than what was common in the mid-1990s," he said. "The fundamental change is a growing population with a rising number of households entering the age in which people typically buy their first home. In short, we have the need, desire and ability for people to buy homes."So are you ready to make the move? You might be if you:

1- Are familiar with the market. If you've been paying attention to how much houses are listed for in the neighborhoods you're eyeing and have a realistic view of how much a house will cost you, you're in good shape. But if you're dreaming about that big corner house with no clue about it's asking price, you may want to spend some more time becoming familiar with the market and how much houses are going for.

2- Have the money for a down payment and closing costs. The down payment is a percentage of the value of the property. Freddie Mac says the percentage will be determined by the type of mortgage you select. Down payments usually range from 3 to 20 percent of the property value. Also, you may be required to have Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI or MI) if your down payment is less than 20 percent. Closing costs include points, taxes, title insurance, financing costs and items that must be prepaid or escrowed and other settlement costs. You can expect to pay between from 2 to 7 percent of the property value. Generally, buyers will receive an estimate of these costs from your lender after you apply for a mortgage.

3- Know how much you can afford. Freddie Mac says that as a general guide, your monthly mortgage payment should be less than or equal to a percentage of your income, usually about a quarter of your gross monthly income. Also, your income, debt and credit history go into determining how much you can borrow. As a general rule, your debt -credit card bills, car loans, housing expenses, alimony and child support -- should not be more than about 30 to 40 percent of your gross income.

4- Know what additional expenses will come with owning a home. This includes homeowners insurance, utility bills, maintenance costs -- roofing, plumbing, heating and cooling.

5- Have your credit in good shape and make sure your credit report is accurate. Potential lenders will view your credit history -- how much debt you've accrued, how many accounts you have open, whether your payments are made on time, etc. -- to determine whether they'll give you a loan. You should get a report from each of the three credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union.

6- You haven't made any recent major purchases, particularly a vehicle. If you do, you may have a harder time getting a loan -- or it could potentially lower the amount you'll be approved for. Once you decide you're ready, you'll need to be prepared to move quickly if you're aiming to buy in a sellers' market.

"Over 40 percent of properly priced homes and condos sell within 30 days, and new listings come on the market daily allowing for good choices for buyers ready to take the plunge," said Realtor Karen Dove, of Pompano Beach, Fla.

Similar conditions exist for buyers in other parts of the country, including some New England areas.

"Properties in the lower price ranges that are priced correctly are selling quickly, as buyers are armed with still low interest rates," report Sara Hancox and Charles Hemmerdinger, real estate professionals in Westport, Conn.

The next steps involve hiring a real estate professional and getting preapproved for a mortgage loan. This way you'll know if you can get approved and how much you can spend on a house. It also puts you in a stronger position when you ultimately make an offer on a house.