Pet Perks, Serene Sanctuary – This Place has it all!

The Inn By The Sea is a wonderful stay if you want to visit Portland, but on the quieter end of things.  Located in Cape Elizabeth by Crescent Beach, this is the place to stay if you are looking for incredible views of the Atlantic from your beach suite.  With plenty of room to stay in every room, you can even bring your fury friend!  Don’t take my word for it, read Dana Freeman’s Travels for a thorough review.

http://www.danahfreeman.com/escape-to-the-inn-by-the-sea/

This Millennial Agent Can Help In Your Home Search

I've made a serious life change, something I feel like I always knew I would do.  I quit my 9 - 5 (or 8 - 6+weekends+nights because let's be serious who works 9 - 5 any more), and I'm going into real estate full-time.  Ever since working for RE/MAX Integra I've had this passion for real estate, there was this fire that made me want to learn more and do more.   What I've seen is that if you're a real estate agent you work 24/7 - nights, weekends, holidays - you just don't stop, and that really excites me.  Hard work will pay off, and I can't wait to hit the ground running.

I'm excited to announce that I've joined Ocean House Real Estate, a boutique agency out of Cape Elizabeth.  I'll help buyers and sellers with their housing needs.  Many of my friends are moving back to Maine, and for those that are already in the state, I'm excited to share with them the wisdom and incredible enthusiasm and knowledge of Maine communities and lifestyle.

How am I different than other real estate agents?  I'm a millennial.  I love technology.  I have a ton of ideas, each tailored specific to you and your needs.  No two transactions will be alike because everyone wants something different.  From marketing or showing a property to negotiating on your dream home, I'll give you a tailored plan on how we'll make your next move the best move.

I'm responsive at all hours via email or cell.  I look forward to chatting with you soon!

Monica@OceanHouseRe.com

(207) 749-4170

10 Steps to Homebuying

The homebuying process can be a daunting process, it can also be the most exciting time of your life knowing you are making an investment in your future.  Either way, a licensed real estate professional will educate and guide you through the process, making sure your real estate needs are met.  Don't be frightened by getting pre-qualified, it's in your best interest to do.  Why look at properties that are above your price range?  That's no way to make a sound investment.  Lead with what you brain says, and don't let emotions guide you into something you won't be comfortable with for the next 5 - 30+ years.

10 Step Guide To Finding Your Perfect Home

1.  Call a real estate professional to start your search - do a quick search, ask friends for recommendations, visit a local office and interview licensed real estate professionals.  Tenure doesn't always mean better service, so ask the right questions for you and your situation.

2. Contact a lender and find out how much you can afford - this involves pulling a credit score and providing statements, pay stubs and such, so make sure you have proper documentation in order.

3.  Start your search - at this time your real estate professional should have set you up with a daily or weekly email with listings in your search criteria.

4. Coordinate with your licensed real estate professional which open houses you'll attend.

5. After viewing properties, you've found the right now.  Work with your real estate professional to make an offer!

6.  Get a home inspection - this is the surest way to know what you are inheriting.  Make sure your inspector is qualified and does a thorough job.  Your real estate professional should have recommendations from previous sales.

7.  Now it's time to get a timeline of what deadlines you have for financing and working with your lender to secure the funds.  Your real estate professional should drive this conversation, but make note of all dates to ensure a thorough understanding of the process.

8.  The appraisal - Your lender will schedule an appraisal of the property to estimate the value of the home.  The appraiser is independent of the lender, but walkthrough the property and give a fair and honest evaluation of the price of the home.

9.  Title examination - A title company will be involved to examine the rightful owner of the property.  Talk to your real estate professional to understand this process in more depth.

10.  Closing time!  You recently did the walkthrough the property, and everything looks good.  You attend the closing, sign all the necessary paperwork and deliver the funds to close the transaction.  It's time to celebrate whatever that may mean to you!

The work may seem over, but there's still a lot to do.  You'll need to declutter, start packing, move, unpack and start creating memories in your new home.  Congrats!