Long-distance moves can be a challenge. It’s even more challenging when you’re trying to buy a home that’s far away. While moving out of state can be a hassle, there are ways to make the process simpler. Here are the basic steps to buying a house in another state:
If you have time and means, it’s ideal to visit your new city in person. Exploring neighborhoods and going on a few home tours will help you determine what’s available. The more you can experience in person, the better.
Get a pre-approval letter from a lender first. Not only can a pre-approval give you a clear idea of how much house you can afford, it will show potential home sellers that you’re serious about your offer. Factor your budget into your financing as well, since it’s common to be approved for more than you need to pay for.
Hire a local real estate agent who can give you information remotely. Find somebody who’s tech savvy and can give video tours of homes and communicate flawlessly even across time zones. Consider shopping around for an agent, too—interviewing multiple candidates and getting personal recommendations is a great way to find the best agent.
Every state and city has its own real estate laws. There are specific rules related to zoning, inspections, property lines, deeds, disclosures and more to be aware of. Because these laws can affect your purchase process, it’s a good idea to talk to a local real estate attorney to make sure you know what to expect.
Buying a home is a complicated process and adding extra distance can make it more so. However, as long as you take these steps prior to making your purchase, you’ll have a much smoother buying experience.
As a lifelong resident of Litchfield County, Heather is quite familiar with the beautiful Northwest Corner of Connecticut. In partnership with her husband at Turri, Inc., in Torrington, she managed and grew a 30+ employee electrical contracting firm that served both the residential, commercial and industrial industries. Currently residing in Goshen she hopes to transfer and utilize many of the skills she learned in contracting to the real estate industry.
Knowing how a vital community relies on its volunteers, Heather spent many hours in several capacities at local organizations that she admires. She serves on the Woodridge Lake Finance Committee and House Committee, Victoria Court Condominium Association (secretary) and Educating Canines Assisting with Disabilities (volunteer and nursery mom). Heather has also been involved with Goshen Community Care & Hospice (president of board of directors), Warner Theatre (board of directors), LARC (volunteer), Festival of Trees (founder), the Northwest Chamber of Commerce, and Goshen Business Circle. Heather also served as Vice President of Woodridge Lake’s Board of Directors.
In Heather’s spare time, she enjoys spending time with family usually in an active way by playing tennis, golf, boating, hiking and skiing.
Heather is honored to be a part of the E.J. Murphy team and hopes you will contact her with any of your real estate needs.
