the property has been on the market and whether it was previously listed, withdrawn, or relisted for a lower price. These kinds of questions can help you decide how much to offer. You'll also need detailed information on the property, most of which will be available from the public records. A bit of research online will disclose the owner's name, the actual age of the home, mortgage history, parcel number, previous property sales, property deeds, and any judgments or liens filed against the seller. Information about the property taxes and whether they're paid or in arrears will also be available in the records. You'll be able to see if there were permits obtained to make improvements to the home. These permits could complicate the sale of the property if workers attached liens or improvements were not done up to code. Please don't skip this search because it reveals important information about the property you're interested in and could save you money. You can get this information through your agent since most agents subscribe to services that give them access to such data. Real Estate transactions in South Carolina are handled by an attorney who takes care that you get all vital information about the property.
MAKING THE CHOICE
Once you've done all your homework, you need to decide whether or not to submit an offer on the house. You must step back and evaluate all the information available from viewing the house, inspecting its condition, and obtaining public records. Keep in mind: • You will likely need to compromise on some of your priorities. No home is entirely perfect, and the first home is often a "starter" on the way to a dream home. However, even if it fits your needs, desires, and lifestyle, there will be things you wish you could change. Examples might
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