Parade of Homes

www.huntingtonhomes.com SHOW HOMES: 133 Rose Lake Court - Bridgwater Trails 82 Waterstone Drive - South Pointe Parade Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 3 - 8 pm Sat. - Sun 12 - 6 pm 204-949-3870 • uSe a real eState aGent The internet is a great place to do research and com- pare prices, but buying a home is a complex process, and an experienced realtor can help you avoid mak- ing costly mistakes. "it's just such a huge deci- sion — the biggest transaction that most people take on in their lives — and when you're a single buyer to not have that sort of voice of reason that can explore deeper into potential houses that you're buying … it is a huge risk to go at it alone," Schwan says. "Our mortgage specialist will have a list of realtors who are well respected in the community." • Get a home inSpection it's not free, but it's a good investment, and it may deter you from buying a money pit. you'll get a checklist of deficiencies and repairs that may need to be made over the next several years. • don't thinK of a home aS a Short-term iNVeStmeNt Commit to living in the home for a minimum of three to five years. if you have to sell before three years, you won't recoup your costs. and finally, when you see your mort- gage specialist, make a date with a financial planner. He or she can help you see the big picture, and may advise you to save a larger down payment. "i can't stress enough how important it is to come in to see their financial planner and their mortgage pro- fessional. i think the two go hand in hand — they shouldn't see one without the other," Schwan says. "it will give them a peace of mind and it will also give them some (guidance) of how they can build wealth at the same time they're taking on this major obligation." 'I can't stress enough how important it is to come in to see their financial planner and their mortgage professional'

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