1. Contact a Carolina Designs Broker to discuss your options and goals.
Your real estate agent will happily explain your options for investing on the Outer Banks at no cost or obligation to you. As Accredited Buyer’s Representatives, Carolina Designs agents are skilled in representing buyers’ interests and finding good values for their clients. Our real estate agents understand that their job is to give their clients the information and education they need to make good decisions.
Email, call or come by the office to get the specific information and tools you need to invest wisely on the Outer Banks.

2. Determine what type of property satisfies your needs.
Browse through the selection of all the Outer Banks properties available for sale at obxsales.com and decide if you are interested in a home, condo or lot. Spend some time driving around the area and check out the neighborhoods and towns from Corolla to Nags Head and Manteo. Your real estate agent will be delighted to provide answers to your questions and helpful information as you become familiar with the region.

3. Talk with a lender.
After talking with an Outer Banks lender, many people are pleasantly surprised about what they can afford and how easy the loan process can be. This is a key step in determining which price range to focus your property search. When making an offer, pre-qualification with a lender is an unwritten requirement in this market. Your real estate agent will be happy to put you in contact with several lenders offering exceptional service and competitive rates.

4. Choose your home.
This is the most exciting step for most families. Meet with your real estate agent to clarify your goals and he/She will find a selection of properties that will satisfy your needs. You and your agent can efficiently analyze many properties and focus your search quickly in the office.
Your agent will set up appointments to see selected homes that meet your needs. Your agent will help you by providing as many details as possible about the property, financing, income and expenses, and more.

5. Reach an agreement with the sellers.
When you locate the right home, your real estate agent will prepare the required paperwork to ensure that no one else can buy the property. This will protect your interests as the home is inspected and financing is secured.
As Accredited Buyer’s Agents, Carolina Designs Brokers are dedicated to helping their clients through every step of the acquisition process.

6. Complete the details.
Your real estate agent will take the necessary steps to ensure a smooth transaction. Your agent will have your home inspected and appraised. Your agent will work with your lawyer, insurance provider and banker to coordinate all of the details that must be completed before closing. Your agent will keep you informed and give you options and advice every step of the way.

7. Bring your beach towels!
Most Outer Banks buyers and sellers are not actually present at their closing; they normally sign their paperwork and mail it to their attorney from their home. The next time you cross the bridge onto the island, you will be an Outer Banks homeowner!

Written by Gray Berryman, BROKER, ABR®, REALTOR®