Buyer’s Guide
Buying a home for the first time is a dream many have. As exciting as it is, it can also be stressful. From choosing the right property to figuring out how to finance, the whole process can be daunting. Let me help you get to your dream home.
Getting Pre-Qualified
It is extremely important that you connect with a qualified mortgage lender and get preapproved for a loan before you start your home search. The preapproval process can be quick and give you the answers you need to get started looking for the right property. Talking to a good, local mortgage lender about your loan options not only gives you a target on price, but the type of property as well. Some homes don’t qualify for certain types of financing and it’s crucial for you and your REALTOR® to know right up front what are going to be the best home or investment options for you.
When you’re ready to make an offer on a property, you will have your preapproval in hand to show that you are ready. I will help you get connected with a lender to find out how much home you can afford to buy and get your prequalification letter.
Viewing Homes
After we meet and discuss your wants, needs, price range, and desired location, we will be ready to put the boots on the ground and find your next home. By using the MLS system, we will be able to gather a list of homes that meet your criteria and schedule showings to go look at them.
Don’t be surprised if the first home you see is the perfect one for you, and don’t be discouraged if none of those you visit the first day are what you want. I am committed to finding the house that you will call home, and we will work diligently until you find it.
Negotiating a Purchase
Once we find a house you wish to write an offer on, I will gather comparable sales, negotiate the price, and handle all of the details of the contract. I am your poker face – I will represent you to the seller’s agent. We will work to create the best offer for the property you find. In a seller’s market, where supply is a lot lower than demand, you can often run into multiple offer situations. I will advise you on the pros and cons of negotiating strategies and together we will decide what works best for you.
The Purchase Process
As your REALTOR®, it is my responsibility to keep each transaction timely and ensure all steps are completed to have a smooth close on the property. Below is an example of a common timeline after the acceptance of an offer.
| Week | Common Steps/Events |
|---|---|
| First | Deposit earnest money check. Make loan application. Arrange for property inspections. |
| Second | Attend property inspections. Make repair requests to seller. Confirm that all information requested by the mortgage company has been submitted. Review any HOA documents. |
| Third | Confirm that repairs have been completed. Promptly deliver any additional information your lender requests. Appraisal is complete (or in week 4). Arrange for mover. |
| Fourth | Walk through home to verify completed repairs. Arrange for cash at closing (cashier’s check, wire transfer). Arrange for settlement and signing of papers. Arrange for transfer of utilities. |
| Closing | Sign a lot of documents. Accept the deed for your new home. Accept keys (if possession is at delivery of deed). Go enjoy your new home! |