Mortgage pre-approvals are a good thing to have before you go looking for a home to buy. You will know how much you can afford and if there is any unforseen situations that may hamper your ability to follow through on the purchase of your home. With your pre-approval we will go over and ensure the following:

1. Your income and any other income you may have (child tax credits, pensions)
2. Your credit rating to make sure there are no hidden surprises.
3. What you expect and require in the house you purchase
4. The long term options and plans you have.

Pre-approvals also "hold" the interest rate some lenders offer. This is good if you know rates are on the rise and you haven't found the home best suited to you.

A Realtor will represent you during the home search and the contract negotiation process of the purchase. They will narrow down the location and type of home and show you the best suited properties. Once you enter into a contract of purchase with the seller the Realtor will assist you in home inspections, zoning regulations and any other conditions that may have been placed in the contract. From start to finish a good Realtor will be there for you

A Lawyer or Notary will represent you during the legal process of the purchase. This is the transfer of title from the seller to you, placing any mortgages on title, disbursements of funds, calculating your share of property taxes along with many other required duties. what you will charged is the lawyer's/Notary's fee and any other costs (your share of property taxes, filing fee's etc...) along the way The cost will fluctuate but a good guess would be about $1,200 to $1,500.

If your Cousin Bob and the boys have a truck and you don't mind the work (or possible damage to your household belongings) , some beer and pizza will usually do the trick but if you are hiring a moving company for the move budget for $500 to $1,500 depending on what you need moved and how far. Again it is best to contact movers early as they do get booked up early. Don't forget to inform the Hydro, Gas, cable and telephone companies that you are the new owners and the date you will be taking over. They do charge for new hookups but most times will include those charges into your first bill.