Real Estate
SPECIAL SECTION:
decades ago. If your debt-to-income ratio is high, you may not
have to worry. Mortgage companies are making it easier for
borrowers with more debt to still qualify.
2. Agent. Having a real estate agent in your corner for a first-time
purchase is key. Agents will not only help you navigate the
home-buying process, but can also be a valuable resource for
an inside look at new homes that go on the market. This gives
buyers the opportunity to view homes that may not have made
it onto real estate websites for public viewing.
3. Location. Your dream house may not be in your dream
location, and your dream location may not have your dream
house. Don’t get stuck in a rut if you’re not seeing everything
you want in your price range. Typically, you’ll need to make
some compromises with your first home. Keep a few non-
negotiables in your back pocket, but otherwise be open to the
idea of putting some of your own upgrades and changes into a
home that may not have everything on your wish list.
4. Home. Don’t get stuck in the mindset that you should spend
every dollar that you qualify for in your mortgage. This could
lead to bigger problems down the road. Look in the market
under your max budget and be creative when looking at homes
for ways to make improvements or changes that better fit your
needs. A little bit of sweat equity can go a long way and will
give the home your own personal touch.
5. Offer. Once you’ve found a house you want to call “home,”
work with your real estate agent to come up with an offer
the seller can’t refuse. Whether the house needs some
improvements or it’s a hot buy on the market, your agent can
guide you into making a serious offer to the seller. If you’re
feeling passionate about the home, write the seller a letter
explaining why you’re the best buyer for the home. These
touches can sometimes be the difference between getting
the house of your dreams, or losing it to another buyer.
6. Moving. You’ve done it! You’ve purchased your first home.
Now that you have a mortgage to pay, keep in mind some
money-saving tips, like asking your closest family and friends
to help you move! A little pizza can go a long way when
looking for some extra help. Make a plan for those personal
touches to add to your home. Test out paint colors in each
room to make sure you like the color in the daylight. Purchase
furniture after making detailed measurements (you don’t
want to come home with something that doesn’t fit!). Add
some curb appeal as a finishing touch and as a way to meet
your new neighbors! ■
S
weeney Law Offices, LLC
20581 Route 19, Suite 1
Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania 16066
Announces Christin L. Sylvester, DO, FAOCO
Pediatric Ophthalmologist
NOW SEEING PATIENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD!
LET OUR FAMILY
HELP YOUR FAMILY
No matter what
family law matter
you may face,
our attorneys will
work with you
one-on-one to
get the results
you need.
Dr. Sylvester will be new
to our Cranberry Location
beginning July 1, 2019 located
at 125 Emeryville Drive,
Cranberry Twp., PA 15066.
She is Board Certified in Ophthalmology by the American Osteopathic
Board of Ophthalmology. Prior to joining Everett & Hurite Dr. Sylvester
spent ten plus years at the UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. It is
now a privilege to have Dr. Sylvester join our Cranberry location.
Everett & Hurite Ophthalmic Association is an independent multi-specialty
eye group providing ophthalmic and optometric services including retina,
glaucoma, cataracts, oculopastics, cornea, pediatrics and refractions.
S
Visit us online at www.everett-hurite.com or call
for an appointment at 1-800-753-6800.
724-742-2590 weeney Law Offices, LLC Additional Office Locations: Butler, Greensburg, McMurray, Monroeville,
26
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Pittsburgh, Rostraver, Steubenville, Weirton, Wheeling, Beaver and Indiana.
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