When buying a home -- whether it's your first, second, or a getaway vacation home -- you're bound to have many questions. For example, how will you find a home that suits your needs? How much money will you need to afford the monthly payments? And how long will the home buying process take?

Sound familiar? If so, you've come to the right place. Our web site offers a wealth of information about the home buying process. Begin your journey by discovering the benefits of working with a real estate professional. Types of mortgages, how to apply for a mortgage, and finding a lender are a few other factors you should know about before purchasing your dream home.

While the experience can be filled with ups and downs, if you contact us, we'll put you in touch with a qualified real estate professional who will guide you through the entire process.

Commitment Letter
Please keep your real estate agent advised of any special conditions required by the lender in your commitment letter. If there are special conditions, check with your lender to find out when they need to be satisfied to insure that the closing takes place on schedule.

Certified Funds for Closing
You should have a certified check or cashier's check made out for the amount of your down payment and closing costs. The check should be made payable to you. The name and phone number of the closing attorney handling the conveyance of the property you are buying should be on your commitment letter. That attorney will be able to tell you the amount of the check if you call a few days before the closing. Each buyer should also bring his or her driver's license to the closing for identification.

Insurance
You will need a binder or complete insurance policy properly endorsed to the mortgagee. Your commitment letter will typically have specific wording for the mortgagee loss/payee clause, which your insurance agent will require. Your lender may also require a paid receipt. You and your insurance agent should arrange this two to four weeks prior to closing.

Condominium Buyers
A Certificate of Insurance regarding the master policy on the condominium complex is required at the closing. It must state the new buyer's name and the name of the mortgagee. The real estate agent that listed the property being sold should have the name of the insurance agency that wrote the master policy for the complex. This agency should be contacted two to four weeks before the closing to allow time for the preparation of a Certificate of Insurance.

Transfer Utilities
Call your electric, telephone, and gas company to arrange transfer of service to be effective the day of the closing.
(Click Here to see list of Town Office & Utility Company telephone numbers)