since most agents subscribe to services that give them access to such data. If you are not using an agent, you can obtain this information through a local title company or can order it online for a small fee. MAKING THE CHOICE Once you’ve done all your homework, you need to decide whether to buy the house. It is important that you step back and evaluate all the information available to you from viewing the house, inspecting its condition, and researching public records. Keep in mind: • You may, and likely will, need to compromise on some of your priorities. No home is completely perfect and a first home is often a “starter” on the way to a dream home. However well it fits your needs, desires, and lifestyle, there will be things you wish you could change. If only it was facing that lovely park you saw on the way there, or if only the house you preferred was in that other neighborhood, or if only this cost a little bit less. At the end of the day, you will need to decide on which factors are most important to you. If you prefer the neighborhood over the house, you may decide to look for a different type of property within the same community. A condo for instance, instead of a town house. • If finances are the issue, you may want to discuss with your bank if they would be willing to increase your mortgage. This is only if you can afford it — there is no point in getting into financial trouble just to get a particular property when more affordable ones could do just as well. • Lower your expectations on the condition of the home. If your inspection revealed a few small problems, you could still buy the property and do the repairs yourself. Use the problems as a bargaining chip to get a reduced price from the seller after getting a quote from a professional for the cost of repairs. Do not estimate based on your judgment and do not let the seller decide how much he thinks it will cost. Also, do not let the seller get the quote.
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