How to keep your cool when closing on a new home absolutely has to happen before the first day of school.
Finding and closing on a new home can be an exciting and happy time. Or, if it’s the middle of summer, the kids are singing a constant chorus of, “I’m bored!” and you absolutely, positively have to find a house in the right school district before the first day of school…well…let me buy you a drink.
Actually, I feel your pain. But yours is not an impossible task. Here are three simple steps that can have you closed, settled and smiling (granted, maybe a little maniacally) come the first day of school.
1. Get Pre-Qualified
First and foremost, you have to have your financing in order. You’ll know how much house you can afford and sellers will know you’re a serious buyer, which always helps in negotiations.
2. Check School Feeder Patterns for Your Neighborhood
If schools are one of the top criteria in your home search, make sure you know the feeder patters for your desired neighborhood. In Duval County, use this convenient school locator. In St. Johns County, use the Attendance Zone Locator.
3. Talk to a Realtor®
A good Realtor can very quickly help you hone in on homes that meet your criteria for school attendance, price, square footage and anything else that’s on your wish list. After all, it’s what we do for a living.
Buying a home on a timeline doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, you can read a few more tips for homebuyers here. Or, if you, or someone you know, needs to buy a home in Ponte Vedra, Jacksonville, St. Augustine or the beaches, give me a call. I promise not to say, “I’m bored” even once….
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