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Starting Your Search

Let’s Find Your Perfect Home.

Time To Go House Hunting!

Once you've secured the right agent and organized your finances, it's time to start shopping the Bloomington real estate market.

Explore

Take a drive around the neighborhoods and communities that interest you to get a feel for the area, and browse listings online as well. When you find a property you like, contact your Tanaka Real Estate agent so they can schedule a showing. While touring homes, ask your agent about each property's long-term resale value.

Narrow Your Search

Talk with your agent about the type of property you want and establish your criteria together. How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need? Do you want a yard? Is there a specific school district you'd like to be zoned in? Sharing these details helps your agent focus on the properties that truly fit your needs.

It's Time to Buy

Your agent's negotiating skills become critical once you're ready to make an offer. Your Tanaka Real Estate agent will handle the necessary analysis to help you craft a strong, competitive offer, examining the potential costs and expenses tied to the property.

During negotiations, your agent will draft the purchase agreement, which includes details on home warranties, escrow arrangements, and title. Your agent will walk you through all protective contingencies, local regulations, and standard practices. While your agent provides expert guidance, the final decision on terms and price is always yours.

When you're ready to get started, call Tanaka Real Estate at 309.336.8935 or complete this short form and one of our agents will be in touch.

Get In Touch

Tips For Buying The Perfect Home

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Don’t Max Out Your Budget

Just because you've been approved for a maximum loan amount doesn't mean you should spend it all on a home's purchase price. Set aside funds for closing costs, taxes, and potential repairs or remodeling.

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Get to Know the Neighborhoods

Make sure the neighborhood fits your lifestyle and your family's needs. Are you close to good schools? Is shopping conveniently located nearby?

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Don't Skip the Home Inspection

A professional home inspection is worth its weight in gold. It reveals issues you might not otherwise catch, giving you peace of mind and helping you make a more informed purchase decision.

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Get Pre-Approved

Getting pre-approved by a lender shows sellers you're a serious, qualified buyer and not just browsing the Bloomington-Normal real estate market.

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Make a List of Deal-Breakers

Know what you can live with and what you can't live without, versus what could be solved with a simple remodel. If you need four bedrooms, don't buy a two-bedroom home that requires a costly addition and blows your budget.

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Check the Age of Appliances and Major Systems

Some of the most expensive components of a home include appliances, HVAC systems, water heaters, septic/well systems, and the roof. Pay close attention to their age and service history. You may even be able to negotiate a home warranty with the seller.

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Check for HOA Requirements

Many neighborhoods have HOAs that govern what you can and cannot do with your property. Be sure you understand the rules and any associated fees, which are typically billed annually.

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Questions?

Give Tanaka Real Estate a call at 309.336.8935 or fill out the form and one of our agents will be in touch.

Contact Us

What Price Range Can I Afford?

Resources For Bloomington Home Buyers

The journey to homeownership starts with understanding how much you can afford. One of the biggest factors is your down payment. Many buyers assume you need at least 20 percent down, but thanks to various government-sponsored loan programs, some buyers can purchase a home with as little as 3.5 percent down. Veterans of the U.S. military may even qualify for zero-down financing options.

Finding a knowledgeable mortgage loan officer is key to getting the most up-to-date information on available lending options for your home purchase. Check out our vetted list of preferred lenders below, or use our free mortgage calculator to run some quick numbers.

Mortgage Calculator

Areas We Serve

  • Bloomington
  • Normal
  • Le Roy
  • Heyworth
  • Lexington
  • Hudson
  • Chenoa
  • Gridley
  • Downs
  • Danvers