House-hunting in Pennsylvania: Things to consider

Pennsylvania is the sixth most populous state in the US and is home to many tourist attractions, professional sports teams, and food manufacturers. It is also known as “The Coal State” and “The Steel State” because of the booming coal and steel industries. As one of the 13 original founding states of the US, Pennsylvania also has a vast history.

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These have made Pennsylvania an attractive place for people who are looking for a new place to live in. Those who are interested in moving to Pennsylvania may consider these couple of factors:

The lifestyle

Since Pennsylvania has both urban and mountainous areas, home buyers should consider the usual activities in the neighborhood when buying a new house.

Those who have corporate jobs may look for houses in the state’s urban manufacturing centers, such as Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Erie. Those who are involved in agriculture may find homes in rural areas, like the borough of Kenneth Square and the North Coventry. House prices are also governed by the economy in a particular area. Considering that there are more jobs in state’s urban centers, the houses are also pricier compared to those located in the suburban and rural areas.

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Real estate agents and contract home builders can help buyers look for a house that suits their lifestyle and fits their budget. Pennsylvania home builders, like Bob Poole and Jeff Rutt, usually provide community maps for buyers so they can easily choose from variety of houses in various locations.

The real estate laws

Since real estate laws vary from state to state, it is best to consult with a local real estate lawyer who can guide home buyers through the process.

Making an offer to purchase a house in Pennsylvania requires a purchasing agreement and a deposit that usually makes up to 10 percent of the total price. Once the agreement becomes a binding contract, buyers can apply for a mortgage loan, title insurance, and appropriate property insurance.

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Those buying a foreclosure home in Pennsylvania should make sure that the house was put up for sale after the 30-day notice of foreclosure to the prior owner and was advertised for sale weekly for three weeks in a local newspaper. This is to ensure that the redemption period after the sale for prior homeowners to reclaim the property is over.

To calculate house payment and accompanying expenses when buying a house, go to this website.