A Short List of Relocation Mistakes

Posted by Kristal Kraft, Denver Realtor on April 29th, 2006

Compiled over the years I come to learn from experience the mistakes people make when relocating to a new area. Here are some of them for you to ponder;

Arrive unprepared to purchase - that could mean your home is not currently sold or under contract. Having contingencies on a present home means potentially losing out on your choose at the new destination. Don’t plan your trip prematurely.
Not having a loan in place prior to your arrival. If you are buying on contingency be sure to have a BRIDGE loan in place or at least have one ready to activate.
Not bringing ALL the decision makers. Having one party come to view homes thinking that this party can make all the decisions for the other is generally a mistake. I can’t tell you how many couples have initially thought they could do it, but when it got right down to the nitty gritty of a binding agreement, they chickened out! Buying a home is a big decision so all the parties should be present through the entire process.
Bringing the kids on a house hunting trip. Kids are great. I love kids, I have kids, I have grand kids and I was even a kid once. Based on years of experience I know kids HATE looking at homes. After the 3rd house they begin to stress everyone out. At this important point in time parents don’t need more stress. Make everyone happy, leave the kids at Grammy’s!
Under estimating the amount of time it takes to look at all the homes you need to see.
Over estimating your ability to remember what you saw.
Under estimating the amount of time it take to write an offer.
Assuming Colorado legalities and practices are "just like home." Real Estate is truly local, learn & accept the local customs and you will be happier.
Don’t combine a house hunting trip with a social event. Some days last longer than normal and if you are here to buy a house that is where the focus should be, not on whether dinner at the friend’s house is burning to a crisp because we found "The One" and can’t get to see it until later. Flexibility is a must. Don’t commit to multi-tasking.
Forgetting the checkbook.