Become a homeowner...step 1.

If you are currently a homeowner or are going to be in the market for a new home, you may be able to appreciate this. My goal as a real estate broker is to help you purchase properties with unified perspectives. With additional guidance from financial advisors, tax advisors, you can be better prepared to understand your opportunities and make informed decisions on possibly the largest investment you will ever make.

We are currently experiencing a pull back in real estate prices due to more restrictive financing options, general concern about the overall economy and numerous foreclosures and “short sales.” We may have been able to avoid today's current environment if just a little more work was done upfront.

The first step to owning a house is budgeting. I believe that all potential homeowners should do a Personal Financial Statement (PFS). This statement covers the big financial picture, including all income sources, personal expenses with insurance and other investments. It provides a background on the true state of your finances. You may need to restructure your finances, but at least you are aware of what adjustments need to be made. It has typically been an eye opening experience. We rarely know how much we really spend since we have limitless access to credit cards. This is a great opportunity where your agent can learn about other trusted advisors in your life, including tax advisors, financial advisors and maybe even legal counsel. These very important people should work together to provide a seamless and unified plan. The tax accountant can help you review the potential benefits of mortgage interest deductions, whereas the financial advisor may have very clear investment goals that need to be maintained for a prosperous retirement. I feel that if more agents had performed these with their clients, less people would be losing their homes.

Many real estate agents don’t have a background in finance and would not feel comfortable with the personal financial statement. You may go to your trusted financial advisor who may already have your financial analysis on file. I strongly believe that agents should be in touch with other professionals to help clients purchase a home that truly maximizes a person’s values and goals.

Wishing you wealth in all its greatest forms.