Mortgage Lenders & Banks
Getting pre-approved is the first step. The Capital Region has excellent local banks and credit unions that often beat the big national lenders on rate and service — especially for first-time buyers.
Capital Bank
Strong local mortgage division, competitive rates for Capital Region properties. Known for personalized service and quick decisions — useful in Albany's fast-moving market.
SEFCU / CAP COM Federal Credit Union
Long-standing Albany credit union (now merged into Broadview FCU) offering competitive mortgage rates to members. Excellent for first-time buyers and those with modest down payments.
Local Mortgage Brokers
A broker shops your loan to multiple lenders simultaneously, which can result in better rates. Ask Asad for a referral to brokers he trusts — people who respond promptly and don't lose deals.
SONYMA (State of New York Mortgage Agency)
NYS down payment assistance and low-interest mortgage programs for first-time buyers. Can be combined with federal programs for significant savings. Income and purchase price limits apply.
Home Inspectors
A thorough home inspection is your best protection as a buyer. Albany's housing stock is old — many homes are from the 1900s–1960s — so choosing an inspector with experience in older homes is critical. Look for inspectors who are members of ASHI or InterNACHI.
Choosing an Inspector in Albany
Key: experience with pre-1970 construction, knob-and-tube wiring, cast iron plumbing, older oil furnaces, and wet basements — all common in Albany's housing stock. Ask specifically about these.
Beyond the General Inspection
Consider additional inspections for older Albany homes: radon testing (elevated radon is common in Albany County), sewer scope (pre-1980 clay pipes), and mold/air quality if the basement is damp.
Real Estate Attorneys
New York State requires an attorney for real estate transactions — unlike most other states. Your attorney drafts or reviews the purchase contract, handles the title search, prepares closing documents, and represents you at the closing table. Budget $1,000–$1,800 for attorney fees.
Choosing a Real Estate Attorney
- Do you specialize in residential real estate?
- How many closings do you do per month?
- Will you (not a paralegal) handle my file?
- What is your flat fee, and what does it include?
- Are you available nights/weekends for deadlines?
Asad's Attorney Network
Asad works with experienced Albany-area real estate attorneys who know the local market, respond quickly, and won't let a transaction fall through due to slow paperwork.
Referrals are provided free as part of Asad's client service.
Title Companies
In New York, your attorney typically coordinates title through a title insurance company. Owner's title insurance protects your ownership rights against future claims — it's a one-time premium paid at closing and strongly recommended.
Fidelity National / First American
Both have Albany-area offices and strong NY operations. Your attorney may work with either — they can shop the rate for you as title premiums are fixed by NY statute but service quality varies.
Why You Need It
Albany's old housing stock means decades of ownership history. Errors in past deeds, old liens, and heir disputes do surface. Owner's title insurance is a one-time fee (~0.5% of purchase price) and protects you for as long as you own the home.
Moving Companies
Albany has a number of reliable local movers. Book early — especially for spring/summer moves when demand peaks. Always get at least 3 quotes and verify the company is licensed and insured in New York State.
Albany Moving Checklist
- Book at least 4–6 weeks before close date
- Get binding estimates (not just quotes)
- Verify NY State DOT moving license
- Ask about staircase and elevator fees
- Confirm liability/valuation coverage
Helpful Contacts
Ask Asad for local moving company referrals at any point in your transaction — he has contacts who prioritize his clients and are familiar with the Albany/Latham/Colonie area.
Government & Utility Resources
Albany County Clerk
Deed records, tax maps, and property history for Albany County. Useful for researching a property before making an offer.
Albany County Real Property Tax
Look up assessed values, current tax bills, and exemptions (STAR, senior, veterans) for any Albany County property.
National Grid
Electric provider for most of the Capital Region. Contact to transfer service: 1-800-642-4272. Always request the prior 12 months' utility bills as part of your due diligence — they reveal heating costs.
Niagara Mohawk / National Grid Gas
Natural gas service for most of Albany and surrounding communities. In areas without gas, oil or propane are common — verify fuel type before purchase as it significantly affects operating costs.
NY STAR Program
New York's School Tax Relief (STAR) program provides a partial exemption from school taxes for owner-occupied primary residences. Register at Tax.NY.gov after closing.
NY Veterans Property Tax Exemption
Eligible veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for a significant property tax reduction in New York. File with your local assessor's office after closing.
Asad M Butt
Your Entire Team — One Call Away
Asad's network includes every professional you need — and he connects you to the right people at the right time, automatically. You don't have to find them yourself.
Start With a Free Consultation