Bettina M. Straight, ABR
Don't Let the Last Name Fool You!

Buyers, I know how important it is to find a place that feels like home.  Whether that's a condo, townhouse, or a single family property, I will take the time to find you what you are dreaming of and work to make the process as care-free as possible. No matter what your budget may be we will find your dream home. I will work within your time line; whether you're looking to move in one month or one year I can start helping you today.  I cover Baltimore County, Baltimore City, and Carroll County for your buying or selling needs.

In 2007 I received my Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR) designation from REBAC, the Real Estate Buyer's Agent Council.  Having worked with so many buyer clients I wanted to increase my expertise to provide even more exceptional service and becoming an ABR was the way to go.  I especially love working with first time homebuyers and use my skills to make the buying process simple and streamlined for you. 
All buyers receive a REBAC Homebuyer's Toolkit as we begin working together- another great service only an ABR can offer!

I also have experience working with investors and am connected with mortgage companies and builders who specialize in rehabbing and upgrading.  Baltimore is in the process of a HUGE revitalization project and there's no better time to get in on it.


Getting Pre-Approved · It is generally good practice to get financially qualified before you start looking at a certain price range for your home so that you do not waste your time.

Wish List · Make a concise list of things that you are looking for in a home. For example: 3 bedrooms / 2 bathrooms · Hardwood floors · Fireplace · Deck. This will make it much easier to narrow your choices and to focus your efforts on homes you are interested in buying.

Making An Offer · With the assistance of a knowledgeable real estate agent you will know if you have any bargaining room when making an offer.  A correctly priced house may have little or no bargaining room while an overpriced house generally has lots of negotiating room.  A comparative market analysis of a property can reveal a lot about its value and the margin at which it is priced.

Looking For Potential · Sometimes a property that is in poor shape or which shows poorly, may have great selling potential but this potential must be revealed.  Original hardwood floors may exist under an ugly carpet.  In addition, fresh paint and a thorough cleaning may upgrade it extensively and inexpensively.  Purchasing a small house in an affluent area where rezoning or rebuilding is a strong possibility could increase its value.
 
Costs Borne By The Buyer · Lawyer or notary fees and expenses · Searching title · Investigating title · Land title registration fees · Survey certificate (if required) · Costs of mortgage · Mortgage company's laywer or notary · Appraisal (if applicable) · Land title registration fees · Fire insurance premium · Sales tax (if applicable) · Property tax transfer
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