Porcupine Real Estate has compiled frequently asked questions by out-of-state buyers to help you purchase a home in New Hampshire!
Q: How do I go about scheduling a showing?
A: It’s very important that you contact us to schedule a showing for you. As buyer’s agents, we have a fiduciary duty to you. That means that we represent you and your best interest in every transaction.
Q: Who pays your commission?
A: The seller is responsible for paying all commissions. There is no cost for buyers.
Q: Will you recommend a good lender?
A: We highly recommend using a NH-based lender who knows the local market. We have established relationships with lenders who will honor the deadlines set forth in the Purchase & Sales Agreement. The lenders with whom we work are service-oriented and require less follow-up and oversight.
Q: How does the inspection process work and why is it important?
A: A home is one of the biggest, most important purchases you will ever make and a home inspector will provide you with more information on what you are about to acquire. If you don’t have a home inspection, you essentially lose the right to request any additional repairs that aren’t agreed to at the time of signing the contract. A home inspection can show not just current needed repairs but also things that may become a problem down the road. If the home is on a well and septic system, we recommend water testing and a septic inspection. We also recommend fireplace inspections by a licensed chimney professional. Radon is common in New Hampshire, and we recommend testing for radon gas in the home and, if the home has a drilled well, radon in the water.
Q: Do I need an attorney when purchasing a home in New Hampshire?
A: In New Hampshire, we use title companies for closings. Each title company has an attorney on staff; they prepare the deed and ensure that there are no liens on the property.
Q: What are the best areas in which to live?
A: Porcupine Real Estate recommends renting for at least six months to get a feel for various areas. Once you determine where you’d like to live, we’re happy to help you narrow your focus based on factors like tax rates, zoning, schools, recreational opportunities, employment centers, political environment and anything else that might be important to you.