Have you considered purchasing a property in central Connecticut? Towns and cities like Middletown, Meriden, Cheshire, and Wallingford offer many options in all price ranges. From moderate and affordable to luxurious, the types of homes and condos in the area cater to all types of tastes.
Real estate in central Connecticut has two advantages: an ideal location for commuters and varied areas. For the former, three of the state’s major highways – Interstates 91, 84, and 691 – pass through or are near most towns, while many state routes also streamline travel. Public transportation through CT Transit and Middletown Area Transit provides additional connectivity. Several major employers, from universities to insurance companies, are in Hartford and New Haven, and the towns in central Connecticut are less than a 30-minute drive from either city.
If you are considering Connecticut real estate, the current market leans in favor of buyers. Before you start searching, however, decide on the type of property you want. Are you a first time home buyer tired of paying rent and looking to own? Are you moving to be in a better neighborhood or school district? Do you want more acreage surrounding your house? Are you looking to own and rent property or diversify your investment portfolio? Describe your dream home before you start searching.
Even before you start searching for Connecticut real estate, prepare and understand what you can afford. Typically, this involves managing your finances, particularly your credit history and bank account. Be fully aware of everything on your credit report, as your history and score determine if you qualify for a mortgage and impact the rate.
Additionally, part of preparing to buy a home includes finding the right lender and getting pre-approved. A seller, in many cases, wants to see if you are a viable buyer. Similarly, you should also prepare a down payment.
An agent is also vital in looking for a new home, and agents in central Connecticut specialize in local real estate and have their own listings. Working with an agent often streamlines the process from shopping around to buying.
Before you move into a home, however, secure the property through an escrow, and have the property inspected and appraised. A home inspector will examine your Connecticut real estate, be it a home or condo, by looking at the plumbing, electric systems, heating, and air conditioning; homes built prior to 1978 must also be checked for lead paint. Although an inspector will list all necessary repairs, he or she does not give an appraisal. An appraiser, on the other hand, establishes the property value. Using a third party for appraisal is recommended.
The last step to purchasing real estate in Connecticut, of course, is moving into the home. As soon as all of these steps are complete, the new homeowners will be able to live inside their new residence.