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How to search for a home in a different city

We know this can be stressful.
Photo courtesy of POND5.

Washington, DC (WUSA9) — Whether it's prompted by a job relocation or simple wanderlust, many people search for a home in a different city from where they currently live. The Real Deal in Real Estate Pros have tips for this stressful situation.

  1. Find the right team. Before you search for your dream home, you need the real estate dream team. Ask anyone you know in the new city and search online reviews for reputable realtors. Once you find one, he or she can set you up with a mortgage lender and title insurance company.
  2. Figure out your non-negotiable needs. Since you may not be an expert of the city you're moving to, it's important to figure out what you want in a neighborhood, and relay this to your realtor. Do you need to be near schools? Is access to public transportation important? How long would you like your commute to be? Once you figure out the type of area in which you'd want to live, your agent can better guide you.
  3. Don't Skype in for the home inspection. Realtors have all sorts of tools to virtually show available homes. This makes the long distance aspect easier, but the final decision should still be made in person. Physically walk through the property during the inspection so you know what closing needs to negotiate.
  4. Find a tech savvy title insurance company. When it's time to finally close on the home, it's unnecessary to physically be in your agent's office. Find a title company that can conduct the settlement using a digital notary, and record it online.

This article is sponsored by The Real Deal in Real Estate.

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